Democrat becomes first Jewish governor in state history after defeating controversial Republican candidate
Summary
Democrat Josh Stein has been elected as North Carolina’s first Jewish governor, defeating Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson in a race dominated by Robinson’s controversial remarks and extreme rhetoric.
Stein, the state’s attorney general, ran on a platform focused on his work against opioids, support for abortion rights, and opposition to unchecked Republican power.
Robinson’s campaign was marred by inflammatory comments about women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and racial minorities, as well as a CNN report linking him to a disturbing online persona, which he denied.
Robinson’s divisive profile ultimately led to a significant loss, with even Republican swing voters distancing themselves.
The Robinson camp had checked out mid October. At the state fair, the third week in November, there was no one at his booth. I had seen only one sticker on one car the entire year.