North Carolina Gubernatorial Race: Mark Robinson’s Shift on Abortion Policy
RALEIGH, N.C. — Mark Robinson, the Republican nominee for governor of North Carolina, faces scrutiny from Democratic opponents over his past comments and stance on abortion. Robinson has been criticized for advocating for stricter abortion laws and for controversial statements targeting women related to the subject.
In a 2019 video, Robinson stated, “Abortion in this country is not about protecting the lives of mothers. It’s about killing the child because you weren’t responsible enough to keep your skirt down.” This footage has been featured in ads by his Democratic rival, Josh Stein, the current attorney general and a supporter of abortion rights.
In an effort to reshape his public image regarding abortion, Robinson launched a new ad campaign that highlights a personal story involving his wife’s abortion decades ago. The ad aims to present him as supportive of the state’s current 12-week abortion ban, a notable shift from his earlier support for a six-week abortion limit with some exceptions.
The evolving stance on abortion is significant, considering Robinson’s previous declaration that "there is no compromise on abortion." The GOP has long advocated for tighter abortion restrictions, but increased turnout for Democrats driven by abortion rights issues has prompted some Republican candidates, including Robinson, to moderate their positions to appeal to a broader electorate.
This gubernatorial race holds high stakes in North Carolina, where statewide elections are often closely contested. The outcome could heavily influence the Republican-controlled General Assembly’s ability to pursue its conservative agenda.
Robinson’s campaign ad features him and his wife, Yolanda Hill, discussing their past decision to have an abortion, a topic they have previously addressed. "Thirty years ago, my wife and I made a very difficult decision. We had an abortion," he recalls in the ad. Hill adds, "It’s something that stays with me forever." Robinson emphasizes his support for existing laws, referencing "common-sense exceptions" for cases of incest, rape, or when a mother’s life is in danger.
When asked if Robinson was changing his position on abortion, his campaign spokesperson replied that the "legislature has already spoken on this issue." Earlier this year, the Republican-led General Assembly passed legislation reducing the state’s abortion ban from 20 weeks to 12 weeks, overriding a veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.
If elected, Robinson aims to foster a culture in North Carolina that supports women and families through initiatives like promoting adoption and enhancing foster care services.
Stein’s campaign criticized Robinson’s advertisement as an attempt to distance himself from a previously "extreme and toxic stance" on abortion, arguing that he would seek a ban without exceptions if elected.
In contrast, Stein supports a framework that protects reproductive freedoms and allows for abortions later in pregnancy, depending on the health of the mother. As the race intensifies, both candidates are expected to continue addressing the contentious issue of abortion in North Carolina politics.
