Senior campaign aides to Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson of North Carolina, the Republican nominee for governor, resigned on Sunday following a CNN report linking him to disturbing comments on an online pornography site. The resignations, including his campaign manager and top staff members, came just three days after the report was released. Robinson's top campaign consultant described the departures as a response to the explosive report, which alleged that Robinson had made inflammatory remarks on the platform.

The departure of key figures, such as campaign manager Chris Rodriguez, finance director Heather Whillier, and deputy campaign manager Jason Rizk, among others, signifies a significant shake-up within Robinson's campaign team. These resignations come less than 50 days before the election and further compound the challenges facing Robinson, known for his close alignment with former President Donald J. Trump. The CNN report detailed comments from years ago in which Robinson referred to himself as a "black NAZI," expressed enjoyment of watching transgender pornography, and defended slavery.

Despite the intensifying controversy, Robinson remains adamant about staying in the race and issued a statement expressing gratitude to the departing staff members. At a recent Trump rally in Wilmington, N.C., Robinson was notably absent, and the former president did not mention his name during the event. Even among ardent Trump supporters, concerns have emerged about Robinson's impact on the battleground state's election prospects. Amid growing criticism and calls to withdraw from the race, Robinson insists that the campaign is well-positioned to connect with voters and secure victory.