North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson was treated for burns after accidentally touching an exhaust pipe at a truck show while campaigning for governor. Robinson sustained second-degree burns and was treated at Northern Regional Hospital in Mount Airy. He recounted the incident to supporters at a campaign event, explaining that he put his hand on the hot exhaust pipe while trying to avoid running into approaching supporters. Robinson, who has been in office since 2021, is running for governor against Democratic nominee Josh Stein.
Robinson has faced backlash from Republicans following a CNN report alleging that he posted offensive racial and sexual comments on an online message board in September. The report led to the resignation of a dozen staff members from his campaign or Lieutenant Governor’s Office. Robinson, who has a history of controversial remarks, denies writing the messages and has hired a law firm to investigate the allegations. Mount Airy, the location of the truck show where Robinson was injured, is known as the childhood home of television star Andy Griffith and served as the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry in “The Andy Griffith Show.”
The community of Mount Airy has embraced its connection to the iconic television show with various homages and festivals. Located near the Virginia border, the town has become a popular tourist destination for fans of the show. Robinson’s accident at the truck show occurred while he was participating in a show parade and interacting with supporters. Despite sustaining burns on his hand, Robinson assured supporters that he was fine and continued his campaign for the gubernatorial election. The race for governor in North Carolina is heating up as Robinson faces off against Josh Stein, the current attorney general, in the upcoming election.
As Robinson recovers from his burns, the controversy surrounding his alleged online comments continues to be a topic of discussion among voters and political observers in North Carolina. The Republican candidate has been working to address the fallout from the CNN report and maintain his campaign momentum. With the election approaching, both Robinson and Stein are focusing on reaching voters and promoting their platforms. The outcome of the election will determine the next governor of North Carolina and shape the future of the state’s political landscape. Voters will have to weigh the candidates’ policy proposals and track records to make an informed decision at the ballot box.
