North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein, the state’s Democratic gubernatorial candidate, expressed confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris’ chances of winning the state during the 2024 election. Speaking on Morning Joe, Stein highlighted the overwhelming enthusiasm at Harris' recent rallies in Charlotte and Greensboro, where around 25,000 people gathered. Stein also discussed the North Carolina Supreme Court’s decision to remove Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from the ballot after his campaign suspension. Stein criticized his gubernatorial opponent, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, for focusing on divisive culture wars rather than key issues like education and economic growth.
Absentee Ballot Delay After RFK Jr. Removal
In the interview, Stein explained that the removal of RFK Jr.'s name from the ballots—after they had already been printed—will delay the mailing of absentee ballots to over 146,000 voters in North Carolina. The ballots will be reprinted, leading to an added cost for local governments, but Stein assured that they would still be mailed out in compliance with federal laws to ensure military members can vote on time.
Stein's Focus on Statewide Issues and Broad Appeal
Stein highlighted that his campaign is focused on key issues such as strong schools, safe neighborhoods, healthcare access, and protecting personal freedoms, including women's reproductive rights. He described the North Carolina gubernatorial race as close, while emphasizing his appeal to not only Democrats but also independents and moderate Republicans. Stein contrasted his platform with Robinson’s, criticizing the lieutenant governor for engaging in "job-killing" culture wars and inflammatory rhetoric that he believes will hurt the state’s economic growth.
Stein’s Polling and the Road Ahead
In a recent WRAL News poll, Stein is polling at 51%, with notable support from conservative voters. While acknowledging that polls can fluctuate, Stein expressed confidence that focusing on key local issues would resonate with voters across the political spectrum as the race tightens in the final weeks. He urged voters to educate themselves on the stakes of the election, vowing to continue working hard to deliver a positive vision for North Carolina's future.
News Source: MSNBC