In north carolinaʼs governor race on nov-5 voters are picking between two distinct candidates to replace term-limited democratic Gov Roy Cooper. The states ninth-largest in US population faces a choice that could shift its political direction
The main contenders present clear differences: Josh Stein the democratic attorney general wants to continue coopers policies while Mark Robinson the republican lieutenant governor (known for his direct communication style) brings working-class roots that appeal to conservative voters. Three other third-party hopefuls are also on the ballot
The election happens against an interesting backdrop - democrats kept control of north carolinas top executive position for most of past three decades with just a short four-year break; even though republicans run both the state legislature and appeals courts system in recent times