The North Carolina gubernatorial candidate lacks experience and has few accomplishments. But one thing is certain: he's definitely angry
Mark Robinson, the current Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina, has swiftly ascended from being a popular conservative figure on the internet to becoming the Republican nominee for governor in North Carolina. His rise has been marked by his relentless efforts to connect with evangelical Christians and promote his conservative values. He has often shared his views on controversial issues like transgender rights, homosexuality, and the role of religion in government, which have drawn significant attention.
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Mark Robinson |
Robinson has frequently voiced his opposition to “transgenderism” and “homosexuality,” labeling them as “filth.” He believes that Christian leadership should be male-dominated, a view that aligns with his broader conservative stance. One of his more provocative claims is that the separation of church and state, a fundamental principle in American governance, does not exist. In a speech given in October, Robinson argued that he couldn’t find the phrase “separation of church and state” in the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, or the writings of any American patriot, concluding that it simply does not exist.
This stance is part of a broader right-wing worldview that Robinson has consistently espoused, one deeply rooted in modern evangelical Christianity. If elected, he could become one of the most conservative governors in the United States. His policy positions include advocating for a ban on all abortions once a heartbeat is detected, supporting the arrest of transgender women who do not use the bathroom corresponding to their birth sex, and encouraging the introduction of prayer in schools. His views on church and state, however, clash with the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits the government from establishing a religion.
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Mark Robinson |
As Robinson campaigns to succeed the current Democratic Governor Roy Cooper, who is term-limited, he has shown no signs of softening his rhetoric for the general election in November. Given the large evangelical population in North Carolina—about 35% of the state’s adults identify as evangelical Protestants, according to the Pew Research Center—Robinson may see a path to victory through his strong appeals to this demographic.
However, Democrats, including his opponent Josh Stein, the state’s attorney general, have labeled Robinson as a radical figure. Stein described Robinson’s vision as “bleak and divisive, consumed by spite and hate” in his victory speech earlier this month. Some Republicans also express concerns about Robinson’s electability, worrying that his extreme views may alienate moderate and independent voters. Paul Shumaker, a seasoned Republican strategist in North Carolina, questioned whether Robinson could project the stability necessary to address the issues that voters expect their governor to handle.
Robinson’s approach has been likened to that of former President Donald Trump, who also focused on energizing the evangelical base rather than appealing to a broader audience. Trump, speaking to pastors at a Christian media gathering recently, promised to amplify their political influence, saying, “You’re going to be using that power at a level that you’ve never used it before.” Like Trump, Robinson has not shied away from making incendiary remarks, which have become a hallmark of his political style.
Robinson’s controversial comments extend beyond his views on religion and gender. He has been accused of making antisemitic statements, and in one instance, he quoted Adolf Hitler on Facebook. He also disparaged survivors of the Parkland school shooting who advocated for gun control, calling them “spoiled, angry, know-it-all children.”
As the first Black person to hold the office of Lieutenant Governor in North Carolina, Robinson has also made controversial statements about the African American community. He accused the community of celebrating “the very lawlessness and violence that is killing its future right in front of them.” He also criticized Black Americans for remaining silent about issues like abortion and gang violence but protesting when a white police officer shoots a Black criminal.
In response to the criticism, Robinson’s spokesperson, Mike Lonergan, defended him as someone outspoken about his Christian faith. Lonergan emphasized that Robinson understands the difference between a theocracy and a constitutional republic. He assured that if Robinson were to become governor, he would take his oath of office seriously and work to improve North Carolina for people from all walks of life. Lonergan highlighted Robinson’s commitment to growing the economy, reforming schools, and fostering a culture that supports mothers and families.
As the election approaches, Mark Robinson’s candidacy has sparked intense debate. His strong conservative stance, particularly his views on the intersection of religion and government, has made him a polarizing figure. Whether his appeal to the evangelical community will be enough to secure a victory in the general election remains to be seen.
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