North Carolina Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson has filed a $50 million defamation lawsuit against CNN following a report that linked him to a series of controversial comments on a porn site forum.
Robinson, currently serving as the state’s lieutenant governor, claims CNN’s coverage is an example of political interference aimed at derailing his campaign.
Robinson’s legal action centers around a CNN article from last month that highlighted troubling comments attributed to him on the porn site Nude Africa.
The report suggests that Robinson allegedly referred to himself as a “black Nazi” and expressed inappropriate views, conflicting with his current public stance on social issues. The report also indicates Robinson used language that contradicts his established rhetoric, particularly on topics related to gender and sexuality.
At a press conference, Robinson denounced CNN’s report as politically motivated. He claimed that the allegations amount to a “high-tech lynching” and called the situation “one of the greatest examples of political interference in the nation’s history.”
His attorney, Jesse Binnall, argued that CNN’s aim is to stop Robinson from gaining traction with voters due to his ability to connect with them.
Following CNN’s report, Robinson has seen diminishing support from within his own party. Many Republicans, including Donald Trump, have distanced themselves from Robinson, and numerous senior staff members have resigned from his campaign and office.
According to Politico, the account in question reportedly accessed the site from a location near Robinson’s home. Although he has denied making the comments, Robinson did not categorically rule out the possibility that he might have done so.
Robinson’s lawsuit also names Louis Love Money, a former adult video store employee in Greensboro, North Carolina. Money alleged that Robinson was a frequent customer who bought explicit material.
While Robinson admitted to visiting Money’s store, he claimed he was only there to bring free pizza from his job at the time, describing himself as a “gregarious, outgoing person.” Money has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
This lawsuit is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding Robinson, who has a history of making inflammatory statements. Over the years, he has made several derogatory remarks about prominent figures, including former First Lady Michelle Obama and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
His comments have drawn widespread criticism, particularly from those who view him as out of touch with the state’s diverse population.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat, was asked if he believes Robinson should resign given CNN’s report and Robinson’s potential to serve as acting governor.
Cooper responded by reiterating his long-standing position that Robinson should step down due to his extreme views and divisive comments. He expressed concern about Robinson’s misinformation regarding government efforts, specifically related to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
According to Cooper, Robinson has spread false claims about FEMA’s assistance, contributing to confusion among hurricane survivors.
Cooper emphasized the importance of providing accurate information to those affected by the disaster and criticized Robinson for perpetuating misinformation.
He urged Robinson to stop spreading falsehoods and undermining recovery efforts, stressing that state officials are working hard to support impacted communities.
Robinson is challenging Josh Stein, North Carolina’s Democratic attorney general, in the upcoming governor’s race. Despite Robinson’s claims of CNN’s political interference, Stein has maintained a steady lead in the polls.
As the lawsuit unfolds, Robinson faces an uphill battle to regain the support he has lost within his party and to address concerns raised by both his critics and former allies.
This lawsuit and the ongoing controversy highlight the significant stakes in North Carolina’s gubernatorial race. As the election draws nearer, Robinson’s legal actions and public statements will likely continue to shape his candidacy and influence voters’ perceptions.
The situation underscores the complex dynamics at play as candidates navigate both public opinion and political scrutiny.
