North Carolina GOP Gubernatorial Candidate Denies Controversial Online Posts

Mark Robinson, the Republican candidate for governor of North Carolina, has firmly denied allegations of inappropriate online behavior and declared his intention to remain in the race. The 56-year-old politician, currently serving as the state's Lieutenant Governor, faces accusations of posting inflammatory comments on a pornography website's message board over a decade ago.

CNN, a prominent American news network, reported uncovering information suggesting that Robinson had used the username "minisoldr" on a website called Nude Africa. The alleged posts included descriptions of secretly observing women in public gymnasium showers during his teenage years. Additionally, the report claims Robinson referred to himself as a "black NAZI!" and expressed support for reinstating slavery.

In response to these allegations, Robinson took to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, to address his supporters:

"We are staying in this race. We are in it to win it. And we know that with your help, we will."

This controversy adds to Robinson's history of making contentious statements. Over the years, he has faced criticism for anti-Semitic remarks, questioning the Holocaust, and frequently targeting the LGBT+ community. In 2021, the avowed evangelical Christian referred to transgender individuals as "filth" during a public address.

Josh Stein, the Democratic candidate opposing Robinson, has declined to participate in a debate with his Republican rival. Stein's campaign stated, "North Carolinians already know Mark Robinson is completely unfit to be Governor." They further emphasized that a debate would only serve to legitimize Robinson's "vile and dangerous rhetoric."

The situation has drawn attention to Donald Trump's support for Robinson. The former president, who is currently seeking re-election, praised Robinson at a rally in Greensboro earlier this year, comparing his speaking ability to that of Martin Luther King Jr. "on steroids."

As the race for North Carolina's governorship intensifies, recent polls show Robinson trailing Stein by up to eight points. This development could potentially impact Trump's own campaign in the state, which holds 16 electoral college votes. While North Carolina has leaned Republican in recent presidential elections, with Barack Obama being the last Democrat to secure victory there in 2008, current polls suggest Vice President Kamala Harris is narrowing the gap with Trump in the state.

The outcome of this gubernatorial race and its potential influence on the presidential election remain uncertain as both campaigns navigate the unfolding controversy.