North Carolina Governor’s Race deemed a Toss Up by Cook Political Report

The Cook Political Report, which tracks elections, has shifted the North Carolina governor race from “lean Democrat” to “toss up.”

The candidates in the race are Democrat Attorney General Josh Stein and Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, both vying to replace Democrat Roy Cooper, who is term limited.

Despite the state’s Republican lean, Robinson’s fundraising numbers and endorsement from former President Donald Trump have impacted the race. Robinson has raised over $10.5 million, the most ever for a Republican gubernatorial nominee, prompting the Cook Political Report to change their projection.

Recent polling shows the race tied at 37% with 17% undecided, while a poll by High Point University has Robinson leading by five points, 39% to 34%.

Robinson’s controversial remarks, including comments on homosexuality, school shooting survivors, and prominent women figures, have stirred debate and could influence swing voters in key areas like the Research Triangle and Charlotte metro regions.

The victor in this race, whether Stein or Robinson, will make history as Stein aims to be the state’s first Jewish governor and Robinson hopes to become the first Black governor of North Carolina.