Mark Robinson Sabotaged by GOP? Rich Baris & Robert Barnes Expose Internal Party Struggles

Rich Baris and Robert Barnes shared their take on North Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor, Mark Robinson, during their September 23, 2024 episode of *What Are The Odds?*. The pair discussed how internal dynamics within the Republican establishment, particularly in the South, may be working against Robinson, despite his populist appeal.

Robinson, a prominent Republican candidate for governor of North Carolina, faces opposition not only from Democrats but also from within his own party. According to Baris and Barnes, the so-called "Country Club Republicans" or "sweater vest" conservatives are uncomfortable with Robinson’s race and his alignment with former President Trump. They contend that some Southern Republicans prefer a more traditional candidate they can control rather than a "rogue black man" like Robinson, who has a strong grassroots following.

The hosts explained that the North Carolina GOP has long been shaped by an insulated, establishment-driven culture. This faction reportedly leaked damaging information to Democratic opponent Josh Stein’s campaign, which then passed it to CNN, effectively undermining Robinson. Barnes pointed out that the Republican establishment would rather see Stein, a white Democrat, win than allow Robinson, a "Trumpy" black candidate, to lead the state.

This tension is part of a broader struggle within the GOP, where more traditional conservatives are at odds with the populist, Trump-aligned faction. While Robinson retains support from the grassroots, the establishment's reluctance to back him reflects deeper racial and ideological divisions within the party. This infighting, according to Baris and Barnes, could result in another Democratic victory in North Carolina’s gubernatorial race. However, the larger question remains whether Trump-aligned candidates like Robinson can overcome internal party resistance to win statewide elections in the South.