Wife of North Carolina Gubernatorial Candidate Found Liable for Defrauding Girl Scouts

Mark Robinson, the Republican candidate for governor of North Carolina and current lieutenant governor, is facing a series of damaging allegations that could impact his campaign. Known for his hardline stance on morality and conservative values, Robinson is now accused of frequenting adult video stores in the 1990s and early 2000s and being involved in a lawsuit over a $3,000 debt owed to the Girl Scouts by his wife. These revelations add to the challenges Robinson already faces in a tight race against his Democratic opponent, Josh Stein, according to a report by NJ.com.

Allegations of Frequent Visits to Porn Shops

Five men, who either worked at or patronized two adult video stores in Greensboro—Gents Video & News and I-40 Video & News—allege that Robinson was a regular customer during the 1990s and early 2000s. Louis Money, a former employee, claims that Robinson often purchased multiple “previews,” which allowed customers to view videos in private booths. Money also stated that Robinson bought “hundreds” of bootleg pornographic videos during this time.

Despite Robinson’s current campaign to remove what he considers “pornographic” content from schools and libraries, Money pointed out the hypocrisy, noting that Robinson seemed to have a different attitude toward such material years ago. “I know he might have problems with gay people, but I don’t think he has problems with lesbians,” Money said.

Unpaid Girl Scout Cookie Debt

In addition to the allegations of frequenting adult video stores, Robinson’s wife, Yolanda Hill, was sued by the Tarheel Triad Girl Scouts in 2003 for nearly $3,000. Public records from Guilford County Court reveal that Hill wrote a bad check to the Girl Scouts, leading to a lawsuit in which the court ruled in favor of the Girl Scouts. The total amount, including fees and damages, came to $3,486.03, which the Robinsons were ordered to pay, along with the Girl Scouts’ attorney fees.

Political Fallout

These scandals come at a critical time for Robinson, who has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump and is trailing Josh Stein by 6-10 points in most polls. GOP analysts are increasingly concerned that Robinson’s controversies could weaken his candidacy and potentially affect the broader Republican ticket in North Carolina, especially in a year when the state is considered a key battleground in the presidential election.

Robinson’s refusal to address questions about these scandals during a recent campaign stop has only fueled speculation and criticism. His campaign continues to deny the allegations regarding his past visits to porn shops, but the damage may already be done as voters weigh these issues against Robinson’s hardline positions on morality and family values.

Broader Implications

The revelations surrounding Robinson highlight the potential dangers of a candidate whose public persona starkly contrasts with past behaviors. As Robinson seeks to present himself as a champion of conservative values, these allegations could erode voter trust and credibility. Furthermore, the scandal involving the Girl Scouts is likely to resonate with voters who view financial integrity and accountability as key qualities in a public official.

As the general election draws closer, these controversies are expected to play a significant role in shaping the narrative around Robinson’s campaign. Whether he can overcome these challenges or if they will ultimately derail his bid for governor remains to be seen.