Josh Stein’s victory in the North Carolina governor’s race this year was significant, with his opponent being perceived as the weakest Republican in a major race this cycle. Stein's success offers valuable lessons for Democrats moving forward.
Unlike the presidential race, Stein, a prosecutor with a 20-year political record and ties to the incumbent Democratic executive, secured the largest margin of victory in any battleground state. Despite facing criticism for being labeled as elitist and soft on various issues, Stein focused his campaign on law enforcement, job creation, and women's rights, ultimately winning by a 15-point lead over his scandal-plagued opponent, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson.
