News & Observer: “Mark Robinson, a Republican who has used his pulpit to make numerous anti-LGBTQ comments, confronted a Democratic lawmaker Monday night after she gave a speech responding to Robinson’s remarks. Robinson ‘berated’ state Sen. Julie Mayfield, a Democrat from Asheville, after her speech and wagged his finger in front of her face”

The highest ranking North Carolina Republican, Lt. Governor Mark Robinson, lost his temper and was screaming at Democratic State Senator Julie Mayfield over her speech advocating for LGBTQ equality. Robinson yelled at Mayfield, wagging his finger in her face, and demanding she ask permission from him before speaking on the floor.

Republican Party Leadership including Senate Leader Phil Berger have refused to condemn Robinson’s actions and his hateful comments towards the LGBTQ community. 

“Like a school yard bully, Mark Robinson thinks he can throw a temper tantrum to intimidate his colleagues and get his way,” said NCDP spokesperson Rachel Stein. “Senator Mayfield’s speech advocating for equality represents a North Carolina that everyone can be proud of. The North Carolina Democratic Party stands in support of Senator Mayfield and in solidarity with the LGBTQ community. We continue to call on Republican leadership to denounce Robinson’s hateful comments and aggressive actions. Democrats aren’t scared of bullies and we won’t back down from our fight for equality.”