By Gene Galin
Siler City, NC – Mark Robinson, North Carolina’s Lieutenant Governor and gubernatorial candidate, made his case for economic and educational reform during his campaign stop at Crossroads Grill in Siler City on September 3. Addressing a crowd of supporters, Robinson highlighted his opponent, Josh Stein’s legislative record, while promoting his own vision for the state’s future. His speech focused on economic growth, educational improvements, and a call for greater government accountability.
Economic Revival and Fiscal Responsibility
At Crossroads Grill, Robinson emphasized the contrast between his vision for North Carolina and that of his opponent, Josh Stein. According to Robinson, North Carolina has made significant strides under Republican leadership, particularly since the party gained control of the legislature in 2010. Robinson highlighted the state’s turnaround from a $6 billion debt and frozen teacher salaries under Democratic leadership to achieving a $5 billion surplus and being recognized as a leading business destination.
“Republicans took over in 2010, and now, 14 years later, we’ve got a $5 billion surplus,” Robinson said. “We were the number one business destination for two years running. Under Governor Robinson, everyone will want to do business here because we focus on substantive issues, not just political mudslinging.”
He criticized the current administration’s handling of economic issues and argued that his leadership would ensure North Carolina remains a competitive business environment.
Criticism of Opponent’s Record
Robinson’s speech included criticisms of Josh Stein, North Carolina’s Attorney General and Robinson’s Democratic rival. Robinson questioned Stein’s legislative achievements and pointed to his handling of the state’s legal backlog and rising crime rates as evidence of his ineffectiveness.
“Josh Stein loves to talk about what I said on Facebook ten years ago,” Robinson said. “But did that affect any policy in North Carolina? No. What did affect the state was what Josh Stein did when he was in the legislature. Back then, Democrats controlled everything, and North Carolina was in economic shambles.”
Robinson’s criticism was directed at Stein’s tenure during a period he describes as economically stagnant and plagued by inefficiencies.
Educational Reform: A Priority for Robinson
A portion of Robinson’s speech focused on his plans for educational reform. He criticized the current education system for its inefficiency and poor student performance despite a large portion of the state budget being allocated to public education.
“We have a $33.1 billion budget, and 61% of that goes to public education. Yet, our K-12 students can’t read at grade level,” Robinson said. “That’s a huge failure, and it’s not the teachers’ fault. It’s the system’s fault.”
Robinson’s proposal includes a focus on classical education and a removal of what he views as ideological agendas from classrooms. He emphasized the need for education to be free of “CRT” and “DEI” and to return to core subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics.
Additionally, Robinson advocated for greater parental choice in education, arguing that parents should have the right to determine their children’s educational paths. This approach, he believes, will lead to a more effective and equitable education system.
Government Accountability and Efficiency
Robinson’s campaign message also included a call for greater government accountability and efficiency. He expressed frustration with what he sees as a lack of accountability in state agencies and the impact this has on businesses and taxpayers.
“We need to make sure that state agencies are working for the people, not for political parties or special interests,” Robinson said. “When those agencies are bogged down, it affects businesses, employees, and ultimately, the state’s economy. I will ensure that these agencies are held accountable and are working efficiently.”
Looking Forward: Robinson’s Vision for North Carolina
As Robinson concluded his speech, he reiterated his commitment to bringing positive change to North Carolina. He emphasized his desire to focus on policies that benefit all residents, regardless of their political affiliation or geographic location within the state.
“Under my administration, we will work on building an economy that spans from Murphy to Manteo, one that works for everyone,” Robinson said. “We need to ensure that every part of North Carolina, from the western mountains to the eastern coast, has the opportunity to thrive.”
Watch on YouTube – Mark Robinson makes campaign stop at Crossroads Grill in Siler City, NC – 9.3.24
00:05 Mark Robinson addresses the crowd and criticizes opponent Josh Stein
Robinson expresses gratitude to the audience and emphasizes faith in Jesus Christ.
Robinson contrasts his own actions with those of opponent, highlighting Stein’s past political decisions.
01:35 Mark Robinson criticizes opponent’s performance in government roles.
Highlights financial struggles, frozen teacher pay, and rise in crime rate under opponent’s watch.
Claims to align closely with the legislator responsible for turning around the state’s economic situation.
02:51 Call to focus on substantive issues
Mark Robinson emphasizes the importance of focusing on substantive issues rather than sensationalized news
He highlights the need for media to report facts and hold politicians accountable
04:24 Robinson Administration’s objective is to work on the economy for all parts of the state
Focused on building an inclusive economy from Murphy to Manteo for everyone, regardless of location
Emphasizes the importance of key pillars like public safety, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and housing in strengthening the state’s economy
05:58 Government agencies should work for the people, not political parties
State agencies should prioritize serving the public over any political agenda
Government should not be weaponized against any individual or group
07:26 State agencies need to work efficiently for state growth.
Agencies affecting businesses negatively impact potential employees and state revenue.
Education in North Carolina needs improvement; 61% budget spent on public education yet K-12 students struggle to read at grade level.
09:01 Advocating for improvement in education system
Highlighting the struggles of educators who lack support and resources
Emphasizing the need for a shift towards classical education and parental choice in education
10:37 Mark Robinson aims to serve the people, not focus on political ladder climbing.
Emphasizes bringing success to others over personal political aspirations.
Expresses intention to serve the people and not pursue a lifelong political career for personal gain.