WS Chronicle

By Algenon Cash

North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson is a high-profile figure within the Republican Party, celebrated by some for his populist rhetoric. However, a deeper examination of his actions and beliefs reveals that he diverges from the core principles of conservatism, particularly in terms of personal integrity, limited government, and the protection of individual liberties.

At the heart of conservative values lies the emphasis on personal responsibility and moral integrity. However, Robinson’s recent controversies—stemming from allegations of lewd, racist, and anti-Semitic remarks made online—seriously undermine his credibility as a representative of conservative ideals.

According to reports, Robinson made offensive comments, including defending slavery and making explicit statements inconsistent with his public persona of advocating for traditional values. Conservative Republicans traditionally champion moral clarity and ethical behavior, yet these revelations place Robinson in direct opposition to these principles.

True conservatism doesn’t just oppose big government; it opposes the erosion of moral standards. Robinson’s behavior not only alienates key segments of voters but also threatens to damage the image of conservatism by conflating policy stances with inflammatory, divisive rhetoric.

Conservatives have long fought for the protection of individual rights and limited government. Robinson’s positions, however, often contradict this commitment. He has been vocal in opposing LGBTQ+ rights, advocating for government intervention in matters of personal choice, such as his opposition to same-sex marriage and transgender rights. While traditional conservatives may favor strong family values, they generally believe in keeping the government out of personal lives and decisions.

Robinson’s rhetoric frequently encourages an overreach of government power into areas where conservatives traditionally advocate for freedom from regulation. By pushing for policies that seek to control personal behaviors and identities, Robinson demonstrates a selective application of conservative principles—defending limited government in economic matters but not when it comes to individual freedoms.

Conservative Republicans pride themselves on fiscal responsibility and effective governance. However, Robinson’s campaign has struggled with organizational issues, as evidenced by the recent mass resignation of his top aides. Effective leadership and financial stewardship are cornerstones of conservative governance, yet Robinson’s apparent inability to maintain a stable and disciplined campaign calls into question his ability to govern a state effectively.

Moreover, his reliance on populist rhetoric over substantive policy proposals suggests a focus more on political theater than on the long-term fiscal and economic health of North Carolina. The contrast between his bombastic public statements and his lack of coherent policy vision should give true conservatives pause.

Conservatism, particularly in its Reagan-era form, emphasized unity, optimism, and coalition-building. Robinson, however, frequently engages in the politics of division. His inflammatory statements on race, sexuality, and religion have deepened cultural divides, rather than seeking common ground—a hallmark of true conservatism. His approach alienates potential Republican voters and shifts the focus away from crucial conservative policy issues like economic development, education reform, and job creation.

True conservatism seeks to unite Americans around shared values of freedom, responsibility, and opportunity. Robinson’s brand of politics, on the other hand, stokes cultural warfare, driving a wedge between various groups within the Republican coalition.

Mark Robinson’s candidacy may appeal to a populist faction within the Republican Party, but his behavior and policies do not align with the conservative values of integrity, limited government, and individual liberty. His controversial statements, disregard for personal responsibility, and divisive rhetoric are anathema to the very principles that form the foundation of conservatism.

North Carolina and the Republican Party deserve a leader who upholds the true tenets of conservatism—someone who champions individual freedoms, promotes responsible governance, and works to unite people, not divide them. By these measures, Mark Robinson falls far short of being the conservative leader Republicans should rally behind. I will not vote for Mark Robinson.

Algenon Cash is a nationally recognized speaker and the managing director of Wharton Gladden & Company, an investment banking firm. Reach him at alc@whartongladden.com