Robinson's Campaign Settles Finance Violations

Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson's political committee, Friends of Mark Robinson, has settled with the North Carolina State Board of Elections to pay a $35,065.52 fine for numerous campaign finance violations during the 2020 election cycle. This follows a nearly four-year investigation prompted by a complaint from campaign finance watchdog Bob Hall, revealing illegal anonymous donations, contributions beyond legal limits, and improper cash payments. Despite the extensive violations, the settlement allows Robinson's campaign to avoid filing amended reports or covering investigation costs, as per a 2018 law that mandates confidentiality until a criminal referral recommendation is made. The investigation's delayed conclusion and public release have been criticized for their timing, as they came after Robinson's 2024 gubernatorial loss to Democrat Josh Stein. Robinson's campaign has dismissed the violations as filing errors by a former treasurer, while Hall expressed disappointment over the prolonged investigation process and lack of financial accountability for the campaign. The settlement marks the resolution of Robinson's campaign finance issues, although his legal troubles continue with an ongoing defamation lawsuit against CNN and a separate lawsuit over an unpaid polling bill.