North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson has decided not to speak or appear at former President Donald Trump's rally in Wilmington, North Carolina, following a CNN report about alleged posts on a pornography website's message board. Robinson, a frequent presence at Trump's campaign stops, has been referred to by Trump as 'Martin Luther King on steroids.' Despite the controversy, Robinson remains the Republican candidate for governor, with the deadline for withdrawal having passed.
Robinson has denied writing the posts, which contain racial and sexual comments, and has vowed to continue his campaign. However, recent polls show him trailing behind Democratic nominee Josh Stein, the state's attorney general. Robinson's inflammatory comments have raised concerns among GOP leaders, with some suggesting he needs to address the allegations more fully.
The fallout from the CNN report has the potential to impact GOP prospects in key races, including Trump's efforts in North Carolina, a battleground state he twice won. Losing swing district races could endanger the GOP's control of the U.S. House and retaining veto-proof majorities at the legislature.
The state GOP has come to Robinson's defense, stating that he has denied the allegations. However, individual GOP leaders have expressed concerns, emphasizing the need for Robinson to address the situation. U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., stressed the importance of staying focused on winnable races to prevent Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris from winning North Carolina's electoral votes.
Democrats have seized on the controversy surrounding Robinson, highlighting his past comments on abortion and LGBTQ+ issues. Robinson, who was elected lieutenant governor in 2020, has faced scrutiny over his remarks and personal background.
Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper criticized Trump and state GOP leaders for embracing Robinson despite his controversial statements, suggesting that they are now facing the consequences of their support.
