Explained: Why is the Trump Campaign Worried About North Carolina

In a troubling development for former President Donald Trump 's campaign, concerns are mounting over North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson's controversial statements and political baggage. As Trump aims to secure crucial votes in the swing state, allies worry that Robinson could jeopardize their chances on Election Day.

North Carolina has been a stronghold for Republicans, voting for the party in 10 of the last 11 presidential elections. However, a lackluster performance in the state could spell disaster for Trump on November 5. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the Trump campaign's distancing from Robinson, particularly after CNN reported inflammatory comments made by the lieutenant governor, including self-identifying as a "black NAZI!" and a "perv," as well as expressing support for reinstating slavery.

What is the Trump campaign saying?

A Trump campaign official stated, "This is an issue that has to do with Robinson's campaign and not President Trump's campaign," signaling a clear attempt to separate the two figures as they approach a critical election period. Notably, Trump has previously praised Robinson as "Martin Luther King on steroids," but that support appears to have waned as Robinson faces scrutiny.

Despite a looming deadline for Robinson to withdraw from the governor's race, he released a video denying the allegations in CNN's report and reaffirming his commitment to stay in the race. As the deadline passed without any action from Robinson, concerns within Trump's camp only intensified.

Here is what you need to know

The unease surrounding Robinson isn't new; it has been brewing for some time. Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley has acknowledged that polls indicate Robinson is trailing Trump in North Carolina. This disparity raises alarms that Robinson's unpopularity could undermine Trump’s support.

"I understand the concern that's been raised ... because you do have a spread between Donald Trump and Mark Robinson," Whatley told Axios. Mick Mulvaney, Trump's former chief of staff, further emphasized the issue, stating, "Trump is being weighed down by a very unpopular Republican candidate for governor."

As the election draws near, the dynamics in North Carolina present a significant challenge for Trump, turning Robinson's candidacy into a potential Achilles’ heel for his campaign.