Trump triages N.C.
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WILMINGTON, N.C. — Former President Trump took the stage in North Carolina yesterday but didn't mention the man who's complicating his efforts in this swing state: Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, Axios' Sophia Cai reports.
- Why it matters: Trump's rally in North Carolina came two days after an explosive CNN report about Robinson calling himself a "black Nazi" on a porn message board raised concerns that Robinson — the Republican running for governor — could be a drag on Trump in this must-win state.
- The report led Trump's campaign to scramble to distance itself from Robinson, whom the former president had previously endorsed and praised as "Martin Luther King on steroids."
🛬 What to watch: To try to counter Harris' recent momentum in North Carolina — and concerns about Robinson hurting Trump — the ex-president is increasing his travel to the state.
- That also goes for Trump's running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio). He's planning two appearances in North Carolina this week.
Trump's campaign and MAGA Inc., a supporting super PAC, have spent nearly $40 million on advertising in the state. Harris and supporting Democratic PACs have spent $57 million, per AdImpact.
Trump held up a granddaughter, Carolina Trump, and a grandson, Luke Trump (children of Eric and Lara Trump), at yesterday's rally.
