Mark Robinson: NC Governor Race & Montana Impact
Mark Robinson: NC Governor Race & Montana Impact
As the sun sets over North Carolina, a controversy looms over the governor's race. Mark Robinson, the Republican nominee, is at the center of it all. His past comments and recent revelations could change the political scene in North Carolina and Montana1.
Robinson, the current lieutenant governor, is known for his bold and divisive words. A CNN investigation has uncovered even more vitriol. His top campaign staff has left after his old posts on a pornographic site were exposed1.
These posts, filled with hate speech on race, gender, and more, have caused widespread outrage. Many are calling for Robinson to drop out. Yet, the North Carolina Republican Party supports him, despite some party members wanting him to quit1.
Robinson's campaign is not just a local issue. It's also a big deal for national politics. The 2024 presidential election is just around the corner. The North Carolina race could affect the Democratic and Republican parties, especially in Montana, where Vice President Kamala Harris is focusing her efforts2.
Key Takeaways
- Mark Robinson, the Republican nominee for governor of North Carolina, has faced major setbacks due to his controversial past comments and the resignation of his top campaign staff.
- Robinson's offensive posts on a pornographic website, including racist, sexist, and transphobic remarks, have sparked outrage and calls for him to withdraw from the race.
- The North Carolina Republican Party has stood by Robinson, but some within the party have urged him to step aside.
- The outcome of the North Carolina gubernatorial race could have significant implications for the 2024 presidential election, particularly in the battleground state of Montana.
- The resignation of Robinson's senior staff members just weeks before the election has created challenges for his campaign.
Mark Robinson: A Controversial Figure in North Carolina Politics
Mark Robinson, a former furniture factory worker, became a key figure in North Carolina politics. He spoke out against canceling a gun show in 2018, after a school shooting in Florida3. His passionate defense of gun rights went viral, leading him to leave his job and speak for conservative groups.
In 2020, Robinson won the North Carolina lieutenant governor seat as a Republican. He became the first Black man to hold this office in the state.
From Furniture Factory Worker to Lieutenant Governor
Robinson quickly became known for his inflammatory statements in North Carolina politics3. In a 2021 Facebook post, he called abortion "killing the child because you weren't responsible enough to keep your skirt down."3 He also used the word "filth" in a 2021 speech when talking about gay and transgender people3.
His bold words have made some Republicans doubt his chances in a general election. The state often chooses more moderate Democrats over hard-line conservatives for governor.
Inflammatory Statements and Anti-LGBTQ+ Rhetoric
Robinson's ties to former President Donald Trump are a big part of his campaign4. Billboards show the two together, and Democrats are using their connection in ads4. But, some Republican leaders, like U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, are worried about allegations against Robinson3.
Graham says the claims are unnerving and if true, Robinson wouldn't be fit for office3.
mark robinson mark robinson north carolina north carolina governor race montana
Mark Robinson is the Republican nominee for Governor of North Carolina. He's running in the 2024 gubernatorial election5. As the current lieutenant governor, he aims to become the state's top leader, facing off against Josh Stein and others5. The race is getting a lot of attention, with North Carolina seen as a key state in the presidential election6.
Robinson has faced criticism for his controversial statements and views on LGBTQ+ issues6. Yet, he highlights his achievements, like securing over $11 million for apprentice programs and tackling classroom issues5.
The North Carolina race could affect more than just the state6. The Democratic Governors Association is focusing on the state in 2024. This could impact the state's supreme court appointments5. The race's influence on the 2024 presidential election, especially with Vice President Kamala Harris, is also being watched closely6.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ck6cV5KcjR0
As the campaign goes on, everyone will be watching the North Carolina race5. The results could change the political scene in the state and beyond6.
The CNN Report: Disturbing Comments on Porn Message Board
CNN found shocking comments from Mark Robinson, a Republican running for North Carolina governor, on a porn site message board over a decade ago7. He used the username "minisoldr" online8. His posts showed him calling himself a "black NAZI," wanting to bring back slavery, and making explicit sexual comments7.
Racist, Sexist, and Lewd Posts Uncovered
CNN linked "minisoldr" to Robinson through an email and other details8. His comments spanned from 2008 to 20128. He made insults about Martin Luther King Jr. and pushed for a total ban on abortion, even without exceptions for rape or incest7.
Robinson's Denial and Campaign Staff Departures
Robinson denied making the comments, calling them "salacious tabloid lies."8 But, the evidence was strong, leading to the resignation of several key campaign staff8. This move showed the campaign's need to distance itself from the scandal8.
Mark Robinson's past comments have shocked the North Carolina gubernatorial race7. The candidate is now under a lot of pressure to talk about this7. The scandal's effect on the election is still unclear8.
Republican Party's Response and Calls for Withdrawal
The North Carolina Republican Party first supported Mark Robinson, their lieutenant governor candidate. They said the "left" was trying to "demonize him via personal attacks."9 But, as the pressure grew, some leaders like Congressman Thom Tillis asked Robinson to take responsibility. They suggested he might want to withdraw from the race9.
The situation got worse as the deadline for a candidate to withdraw passed. Despite the controversy, Robinson stayed on the ballot. He faced a 13-point gap in polls against his Democratic opponent, Josh Stein9.
Robinson skipped a Trump rally in Wilmington, North Carolina. This raised questions about the scandal's effect on Trump's support9. Senator Tillis urged Robinson to address the allegations. This showed the party's attempt to distance themselves from the scandal9.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Campaign Staffers Resigned | 8 |
| Reported Polling Deficit | 13 points |
The Republican Party's handling of the Mark Robinson scandal is complex. They must balance loyalty to the party with addressing public concerns9. The scandal's impact on the North Carolina gubernatorial race could affect the party's image statewide and nationally10.
Impact on the North Carolina Gubernatorial Race
Mark Robinson's past comments have hurt his campaign for North Carolina governor. Polls show him trailing his Democratic opponent, Attorney General Josh Stein, by a lot11.
Stein leads Robinson by 6 to 14 points in recent polls. This is based on data from FiveThirtyEight, Emerson College, SurveyUSA, ActiVote, and Fox News11. Despite being a Republican, Robinson's past statements have made him less likely to win. This worries some Republicans about the party's chances12.
North Carolina has voted for moderate Democratic governors often. Since 1992, they've won seven out of eight races11. The Cook Political Report now sees the race as "Leans Democratic," showing Robinson's big challenges11.
Robinson's Trailing Position in the Polls
Robinson's campaign is struggling. A recent Emerson College poll of 775 likely voters found Stein leading by 6 points, 47% to 41%11. Other polls have shown Stein leading by even more, like an August 21 SurveyUSA poll11.
Robinson's past has had a big impact. The race is now seen as leaning Democratic11. Even though Trump endorsed him in March12, voters have chosen more moderate candidates12.
"The most extreme statewide candidate in the country right now."
- Incumbent Governor Roy Cooper's description of Mark Robinson12.
Donald Trump's Endorsement and Praise for Robinson
Former President Donald Trump has been a big supporter of Mark Robinson, North Carolina's Republican nominee for governor. Trump has often praised Robinson, even comparing him to civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr13. At a rally in Greensboro, North Carolina, in March 2022, Trump called Robinson "Martin Luther King on steroids."
He added, "I think you're better than Martin Luther King. I think you are Martin Luther King times two."13 Trump's strong support and positive words for Robinson have made their bond clear. This could affect Trump's political future and the 2024 presidential election.
Trump's Past Comments Comparing Robinson to Martin Luther King Jr.
Trump's comparison of Robinson to Martin Luther King Jr. has sparked controversy13. It's not the first time Trump has made such a comparison, which has faced criticism12. Trump's backing of Robinson could have big effects, not just in North Carolina but nationwide.
"I think you're better than Martin Luther King. I think you are Martin Luther King times two."
-Donald Trump, on endorsing Mark Robinson
Kamala Harris Campaign's Ad Tying Robinson to Trump
Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign has made a new TV ad. It links Trump's support for Mark Robinson to Robinson's own controversial views. This includes his stance against abortion exceptions14. The goal is to hurt Trump's image in North Carolina, a key state for the 2024 election14.
The Harris-Walz campaign has set aside $370 million for ads from Labor Day to Election Day14. The ad will air on TV in North Carolina, on shows like local news and "Jeopardy" and "Wheel of Fortune."14 It aims to reach many people and show that Robinson's views match Trump's.
Vice President Harris will speak in Georgia, focusing on Trump's impact on abortion laws14. She will mention deaths linked to Georgia's abortion restrictions14. This shows the Democrats' plan to link Trump to Republican candidates like Robinson.
Trump has endorsed Robinson, calling him "Martin Luther King on steroids."14 This has raised worries about Robinson's chances and the Republican Party's image in North Carolina and beyond.
The 2024 presidential election is getting more complex in North Carolina. The Harris campaign's ad strategy aims to use the Robinson controversy to change how voters see the Republican Party14.
Republicans Distancing Themselves from Robinson
As the fallout from the CNN report grew, some north carolina republicans started to step away from mark robinson. Thom Tillis, the state's senior Republican senator, spoke out. He urged Robinson to own up to his actions if the reports are correct15.
Tillis' words and the pressure on Robinson from his own party show a big worry. This worry is about Robinson's chances and how he might affect other Republican races in north carolina15.
Tillis' Remarks and Pressure on Robinson
Tillis said, "If the reporting is true, Mark Robinson should take responsibility for his actions."15 His statement marked a change in the republicans' view. They wanted to keep their distance from Robinson and protect their party's image16.
The pressure on Robinson from his own party is clear. It shows the big worry about how the allegations might affect the north carolina governor's race. With key staff leaving, the republicans face a tough challenge to keep their chances in the state1516.
The republicans' move away from mark robinson is a strategic choice. They aim to avoid the political fallout of the scandal. Thom Tillis' comments and the pressure on Robinson show the party's efforts to stay clear of the issue. They want to protect their interests in north carolina16.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Former President Trump Endorsements | Multiple times |
| Trump's Comparison of Robinson to Martin Luther King Jr. | "Martin Luther King on steroids" |
| Key Campaign Staff Departures | 4 members, including general consultant, campaign manager, finance director, and deputy campaign manager |
| Trump Rally in North Carolina | No mention of Mark Robinson |
| Robinson's Attendance at Trump Rally | Did not attend |
"If the reporting is true, Mark Robinson should take responsibility for his actions."
- Thom Tillis, North Carolina Senator
Impact on Trump's Performance in North Carolina
North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson's past comments could affect former President Donald Trump's political standing in the state17. The state has 16 key electoral votes in the presidential race. It has been unpredictable in election results, with recent contests decided by narrow margins17.
In 2020, Trump lost North Carolina by a little over one percentage point. In 2016, he won by nearly four points17. The scandal surrounding Robinson, the Republican nominee for governor, could challenge Trump's influence in North Carolina. This could also affect his plans for a potential 2024 presidential run17.
Polls show a tight race in North Carolina, making late-breaking news impactful17. Trump leads Vice President Kamala Harris by a narrow margin, with 3% undecided18. The Republican Party's distance from Robinson could affect Trump's performance in the state17.
Trump's loyal voter base is key in determining the scandal's impact on the presidential race17. However, the scandal could lower GOP enthusiasm in North Carolina. This could influence Trump's results in the state17.
The 2024 presidential race's outcome in North Carolina is uncertain until election night17. The state's unpredictable nature and tight margins in recent contests make it crucial. The fallout from the Robinson scandal could significantly shape the outcome17.
| Candidate | Polling Average | Actual Result |
|---|---|---|
| Joe Biden | 47.3% | 48.6% |
| Donald Trump | 46.1% | 49.9% |
In the 2020 presidential election, North Carolina's polling averages underestimated Trump's performance by 3.8 percentage points19. This shows the potential for unexpected outcomes in the state. The Robinson scandal could further influence these outcomes17.
As the 2024 election cycle approaches, the Robinson controversy's impact on Trump's performance in North Carolina will be crucial to monitor17. The state's unpredictable nature and tight margins in recent contests make it a battleground. It could have significant sway in the national political landscape17.
Montana Ballot Impact and Montana Connection
The North Carolina gubernatorial race is getting a lot of attention, especially in Montana. Vice President Kamala Harris sees Montana as key to winning the 2024 presidential election20. The controversy around Mark Robinson, the Republican candidate, could affect Montana's vote in 202420.
Montana's politics are complex, with Governor Greg Gianforte running for re-election20. Ryan Busse won the Democratic primary, while Gianforte beat Tanner Smith in the Republican primary20. The lieutenant governor race also has interesting candidates from both parties20.
The mix of Montana's politics and North Carolina's race makes 2024 exciting. The montana connection and montana ballot will be key in shaping Montana's future21.
The itsnovavoyage initiative is keeping an eye on these developments. They aim to make sure Montanans have the latest info on candidates and issues21.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Montana Gubernatorial Primary (2024) |
|
| Montana Lieutenant Governor Primary (2024) |
|
| Montana Gubernatorial Election (2020) |
|
"The political dynamics in Montana, combined with the potential impact of the North Carolina gubernatorial race, create an intriguing landscape for the 2024 election cycle."
As 2024 gets closer, the montana ballot and montana connection will be big topics. The itsnovavoyage initiative is leading these important discussions2021.
Conclusion
The article has looked into Mark Robinson's complex campaign for North Carolina's governor. He went from a furniture worker to the state's lieutenant governor. His journey is marked by inflammatory statements and anti-LGBTQ+ views22.
Robinson's comments on a porn message board have caused a stir. The Republican Party has responded, calling for him to step down. This scandal has made the North Carolina race even more intense, with Robinson behind in the polls2322.
The article also talked about how Robinson's campaign might affect Donald Trump's chances in North Carolina. It also touched on the 2024 presidential election in Montana. With all this information, readers now understand the political scene in North Carolina and beyond2422.
FAQ
Who is Mark Robinson?
Mark Robinson is the Republican candidate for governor of North Carolina. He is the state's lieutenant governor, the first Black man to hold this office.
What is Mark Robinson's controversial background?
Robinson has made inflammatory comments on race, gender, and LGBTQ+ rights. His provocative words have raised concerns about his ability to win a general election.
What did the CNN report uncover about Robinson's past comments?
A CNN report found disturbing comments from Robinson on a pornographic website. He called himself a "black NAZI" and supported reinstating slavery.
How has the Republican Party responded to the Robinson controversy?
The North Carolina Republican Party initially supported Robinson. But some GOP leaders, like Congressman Thom Tillis, now want him to take responsibility and consider stepping down.
How is the Robinson scandal affecting the North Carolina gubernatorial race?
Polls show Robinson trailing his Democratic opponent, Attorney General Josh Stein. The scandal has hurt his campaign and raised doubts about the GOP's chances of winning.
How is Donald Trump involved in the Robinson campaign?
Former President Donald Trump supports Mark Robinson, praising him and comparing him to Martin Luther King Jr. Trump's backing could impact his own political future and the 2024 presidential election.
How is Kamala Harris' campaign targeting the Robinson scandal?
Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign has launched an ad linking Trump's support for Robinson to Robinson's controversial views. The ad aims to hurt Trump's image in North Carolina.
How could the Robinson controversy impact the 2024 presidential election in Montana?
The Robinson scandal and Harris' campaign could sway voters in Montana. The vice president is focusing on Montana and other Sun Belt states to reach 270 Electoral College votes.
Source Links
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/22/politics/mark-robinson-campaign-resignations/index.html - Several senior campaign officials for Mark Robinson step down in wake of CNN report | CNN Politics
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/21/politics/donald-trump-north-carolina-mark-robinson/index.html - Trump rallies in North Carolina as controversy engulfs his handpicked candidate for governor | CNN Politics
- https://www.kulr8.com/news/national/several-mark-robinson-campaign-staffers-quit-as-fallout-over-online-posts-continues/article_116a34c0-1ad8-51e4-b0f3-aacd1614d869.html - Several Mark Robinson campaign staffers quit as fallout over online posts continues
- https://www.koamnewsnow.com/news/national-politics/trump-rallies-in-north-carolina-as-controversy-engulfs-his-hand-picked-candidate-for-governor/article_faa190cf-24f8-5875-8fb3-396d2d0b3b00.html - Trump rallies in North Carolina as controversy engulfs his handpicked candidate for governor
- https://ballotpedia.org/Mark_K._Robinson_(North_Carolina_lieutenant_governor) - Mark K. Robinson (North Carolina lieutenant governor)
- https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/mark-robinson-wont-appear-at-trump-rally-after-report-on-online-posts-sources-tell-ap - Mark Robinson won't appear at Trump rally after report on online posts, sources tell AP
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/19/politics/kfile-mark-robinson-black-nazi-pro-slavery-porn-forum/index.html - Mark Robinson, NC GOP nominee for governor, called himself a ‘black NAZI!,’ supported slavery in past comments made on porn forum | CNN Politics
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/20/politics/posts-removed-porn-forum-mark-robinson-north-carolina-kfile/index.html - Lewd posts by Trump-backed candidate for NC governor removed from porn forum | CNN Politics
- https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2024/sep/22/top-aides-resign-from-embattled-north-carolina-can/ - Top aides resign from embattled North Carolina candidate's campaign
- https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-fallout-mark-robinson-scandal-politics-desk-rcna172040 - Trump grapples with fallout from Mark Robinson’s latest scandal: From the Politics Desk
- https://www.newsweek.com/north-carolina-polling-governor-race-1946518 - Mark Robinson cuts Josh Stein's lead to six in North Carolina governor poll
- https://triblive.com/news/politics-election/what-to-know-about-mark-robinson-the-embattled-republican-nominee-for-north-carolina-governor/ - No title found
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/19/politics/north-carolina-governor-mark-robinson/index.html - Harris campaign highlights Trump’s past praise for Mark Robinson as CNN report roils battleground North Carolina | CNN Politics
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/20/politics/mark-robinson-donald-trump-kamala-harris-ad/index.html - Exclusive: Harris campaign launching new ad seeking to tie Trump to Mark Robinson | CNN Politics
- https://www.everettpost.com/politics/trump-doesnt-mention-embattled-gop-candidate-mark-robinson-at-north-carolina-rally - Trump doesnt mention embattled GOP candidate Mark Robinson at North Carolina rally - Everett Post
- https://www.rockymounttelegram.com/news/local/stein-robinson-unfit-to-be-governor/article_674d3986-795d-11ef-b780-33cab5c97681.html - Stein: Robinson ‘unfit’ to be governor
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/20/politics/trump-robinson-north-carolina-harris-analysis/index.html - Analysis: Why a scandal consuming a Trump protégé could harm the ex-president in North Carolina | CNN Politics
- https://surveyresearch-ecu.reportablenews.com/pr/north-carolina-election-heats-up-trump-leads-harris-by-1-point-in-north-carolina-stein-widens-advantage-over-robinson-in-race-for-governor - ECU Center for Survey Research
- https://thedispatch.com/newsletter/stirewalt-on-politics/the-known-trump-2/ - The Known Trump
- https://ballotpedia.org/Montana_gubernatorial_and_lieutenant_gubernatorial_election,_2024 - Montana gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial election, 2024
- https://smokymountainnews.com/archives/item/37679-balancing-act-robinson-stein-offer-competing-visions-of-the-future-in-north-carolina - Balancing act: Robinson, Stein offer competing visions of the future in North Carolina
- https://www.richmondsentinel.ca/article-detail/49879/north-carolina-republican-governor-candidate-mark-robinson-vows-to-stay-in-race-despite-media-report - North Carolina Republican governor candidate Mark Robinson vows to stay in race despite media report
- https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_19275db4-2a88-11ef-b877-e7433f1dac7a.html - U.S. Supreme Court adds ammunition to North Carolina governor's race
- https://ballotpedia.org/North_Carolina_gubernatorial_election,_2024 - North Carolina gubernatorial election, 2024
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