The gubernatorial race in North Carolina is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched and competitive races of the year. Democrats have nominated moderate state Attorney General Josh Stein to face off against Republican nominee Mark Robinson, the current lieutenant governor known for his right-wing stance.
With the term limit preventing Gov. Roy Cooper from running again, Democrats are aiming to maintain their foothold in Southern politics and potentially flip the state, which was narrowly won by Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election.
While North Carolina has leaned Republican in recent presidential elections, Democrats are hopeful, especially given the potential backlash over the GOP-led override of Cooper’s veto on a 12-week abortion ban. This contentious move could sway voters, especially on social issues, where Robinson has taken a hardline stance similar to former President Donald Trump.
Robinson’s political persona aligns closely with Trump’s, emphasizing gun rights, abortion restrictions, and controversial rhetoric that has drawn criticism. Despite facing calls for resignation over inflammatory remarks and his staunch conservative views, Robinson has remained steadfast, doubling down on his positions.
Stein, on the other hand, boasts deep political ties in North Carolina, with his father being a renowned civil rights attorney. He has positioned himself as a defender of reproductive rights, warning against the consequences of GOP control in the state.
The race is expected to center on issues like reproductive rights, with the recent Supreme Court decision impacting the national debate. While Robinson has advocated for stricter measures, Stein has emphasized the need to protect women’s rights to make decisions about their bodies.
Trump’s endorsement of Robinson underscores the alignment between the two figures, despite their differences in style and background. However, national Democrats, including Biden, have kept a distance from the race, likely due to Biden’s uncertain standing in the state.
As the presidential and gubernatorial races in North Carolina heat up, both parties are gearing up for a closely contested battle, with the outcome likely to have significant implications for the state’s political landscape.