Mark Robinson’s Rise: From Endorsements to Controversy, Navigating the Road to History in North Carolina’s Gubernatorial Race

In a significant projection, CBS News anticipates that North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson will clinch the Republican primary for governor. Robinson garnered the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, who lauded him as “Martin Luther King on steroids.” Tuesday’s projections suggest Robinson will surpass attorney Bill Graham and State Treasurer Dale Folwell in the GOP primary race.

At 55 years old, Robinson has held the position of North Carolina’s lieutenant governor since 2021. He rose to prominence within Republican circles after delivering a viral pro-gun rights speech. Notably, Robinson’s remarks on various issues, including LGBTQ+ matters, have sparked controversy. If elected, he would make history as the first Black governor of North Carolina.

The gubernatorial contest is poised to draw significant attention and financial resources. Robinson is expected to face a tough battle against North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein in November, with CBS News projecting Stein’s victory in the Democratic primary. This race is particularly significant as Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, is term-limited.

While North Carolina has seen Democratic success in gubernatorial races, recent years have favored Republicans in other offices and presidential elections since 2012. Despite this, some Republicans caution that Robinson’s candidacy could pose challenges in reclaiming the governor’s mansion.

North Carolina’s pivotal role as a battleground state in 2024 will amplify the importance of the gubernatorial race. Robinson is anticipated to embrace the MAGA Republican playbook championed by Trump, while Stein is likely to align with President Biden’s policies.

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