Stein Commanding Lead over Robinson in North Carolina Governor Race

In the highly contested gubernatorial race in North Carolina, recent polling data shows Democratic Attorney General Josh Stein leading Republican Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson. According to an ActiVote survey conducted among 400 likely voters between July 26 and August 26, Stein is ahead by eight points, with 54 percent support compared to Robinson's 46 percent. The survey has a margin of error of 4.9 percent, indicating a competitive race as the state moves closer to the November election.

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This poll is consistent with other August surveys, indicating a lead for Stein. A High Point University/Survey USA poll conducted between August 19 and 21 among 1,053 registered voters shows Stein leading by an even wider margin of 14 points, with 48 percent to Robinson's 34 percent. These polls pose a significant challenge for Robinson as he campaigns to become North Carolina's first Black governor.

Despite the polling data, Robinson's campaign remains optimistic. His communications director, Mike Lonergan, pointed out that historical trends have often underestimated Republican support in North Carolina. He emphasized that with a large portion of the electorate still undecided and ongoing efforts to mobilize voters, Robinson remains in a strong position to narrow the gap.

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North Carolina, a battleground state, has a history of closely contested gubernatorial races. Despite the state's tendency to lean Republican in presidential elections, Democrats have won seven of the last eight governor's races since 1992. Stein's campaign aims to uphold this Democratic hold on the governor's office following the two terms of outgoing Governor Roy Cooper, who has criticized Robinson, labeling him as "the most extreme statewide candidate in the country right now."

Robinson, known for his controversial remarks on various social issues, faces criticism for his past comments and positions, including his opposition to reparations for slavery and his harsh rhetoric towards the LGBTQ+ community. However, he has garnered significant support from conservative voters, including an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who has described Robinson as "Martin Luther King on steroids."

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The race has also seen a significant disparity in campaign financing. AdImpact, a political spending tracker, reports that nearly $78 million has been spent or reserved for the gubernatorial race, with three-quarters of that supporting Stein. This financial advantage may prove crucial in a state where elections are often decided by narrow margins.

Political analysts suggest that Robinson's performance in this race could have broader implications, potentially influencing Donald Trump's chances in North Carolina should the Republican candidate underperform. As the campaign enters its final stretch, both sides are intensifying their efforts to sway undecided voters in what is expected to be a closely watched and highly competitive election.

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North Carolina Governor polls - The Hill and DDHQ

North Carolina Governor Poll Shows Josh Stein and Mark Robinson's Chances (msn.com)

Mark Robinson trails Josh Stein in governor race, faces challenges (msn.com)

Josh Stein leading by 14 points for NC Governor, new poll shows | wfmynews2.com