Mark Robinson, the GOP nominee for governor of North Carolina endorsed by Donald Trump, holds a deeply controversial stance on the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a federal law celebrated for significantly expanding health care coverage, protecting individuals with preexisting conditions, and saving lives. Robinson has likened the ACA to one of the most egregious forms of oppression, stating it’s akin to slavery.
In a 2018 appearance on the YouTube show “Politics and Prophecy,” Robinson voiced his vehement opposition to the ACA, asserting it wasn’t just about Black people but a concerted effort to enslave everyone.
His primary objection to the law was its provision allowing children to remain on their parent’s health insurance until the age of 26, which he deemed unacceptable. Robinson’s disdain for the ACA is part of his broader rejection of governmental involvement in health care, as evidenced by his social media posts advocating for its repeal without replacement.
During Donald Trump’s presidency, repealing the ACA was a pivotal agenda item. However, Robinson went further, advocating for outright abolition rather than replacement or reform. Despite the ACA’s growing popularity and North Carolina’s recent expansion of Medicaid, which extended coverage to an additional 600,000 individuals, Robinson remains steadfast in his opposition.
His campaign’s communications director emphasized Robinson’s commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for North Carolinians under the new Medicaid expansion program, despite his initial resistance.
Robinson’s controversial views on health care are just one aspect of his contentious public statements. His history includes derogatory remarks towards women, equating breastfeeding in public with shamelessness, denigrating the LGBTQ+ community, expressing distrust towards Muslims, and minimizing the horrors of the Holocaust.
These statements, among others, underscore the divisive nature of Robinson’s candidacy for governor and are expected to be a focal point in the upcoming election, with Democrats aiming to educate voters on the implications of his positions.