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.