Mike Robinson

Mike Robinson was born in Wilmington, Delaware. He earned a bachelor's degree from Elon University in 1980 and a graduate degree from Charter Oak State College. Robinson's career experience includes working as a business consultant.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

A retired business leader, Mike is a former candidate for the US House. He and his family have lived in central North Carolina for 40 years where he has been an active community volunteer with schools, scouts and the state government. Mike is a recipient of the “Order of the Long Leaf Pine”

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

The time has come for all of us here in Iredell County to say "enough". The continuation of backroom deals in Raleigh, such as the Timber Rd extension in Mooresville should really raise the question - don't we all deserve better?We have an opportunity this election season to break the cycle of corruption and shady deals. We should all vote, but make it an informed vote. Many of the founders of this nation felt that a well-educated populace is a necessary foundation for a free, self-governing society. QUALITY Public education is the way we get that.

Thomas Jefferson wrote that "If a nation expects to be ignorant and free... it expects what never was and never will be."Honesty, Integrity and transparency are sadly lacking in the State House in Raleigh.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Honesty, integrity and Transparency in state government

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Metrolina Labor Council

Planned Parenthood

Term Limits for Congress.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Mike Robinson is a common sense retired business leader who is ready to help North Carolina with a Better Way. He supports public funds stay in public schools, and that no citizen's right and ability to vote and be heard should be impaired. He feels southern Iredell County has been poorly represented in Raleigh - just look at the roads!

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Every citizen's voice should be heardNC's future depends on strong Public schools FIX OUR ROADS

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

The games being played in Raleigh benefit very few - only those whose only goal is to stay in power - not to represent the people. These games must stop.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Paul Tsongas, Gov Jim Hunt, Rep Liz Cheney

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Among others, I support the Concord Coalition - we need to stop spending more money that we take in.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity - there can be no doubt that our representatives should be in Raleigh to serve the people and not themselves.

Honesty - tell the truth - admit when you're wrong.

Open-Mindedness - LISTEN and be willing to compromise or change your view.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Honesty, Integrity and a willingness to listen with vigor and speak openly

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Put the people of southern Iredell County FIRST.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Everyone's voice is heard and vote matters

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

JFK was killed. I was 6

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I swept up in a machine shop when I was 16. At the same time I delivered newspapers.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The separation and balance of powers is a keystone of democracy. The recent moves to reduce the Governor's responsibilities are misguided.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Too much money in politics

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Not necessarily - sometimes they learn how to play the system too well at the expense of representing the people.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I have spent a career facilitating teams and getting parties to work together. Relationships based on integrity, trust and transparency with a willingness to listen are key.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Sen Paul Tsongas

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Perhaps

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

The Fairness in Representation Act - un-gerrymandering our districts by creating a bi-partisan commission to set and adjust them.