🏛️ Residency Questions and Police Run-In May Threaten Enfield Mayor’s Re-Election

Written and inspired by Quarla Blackwell

As Enfield prepares for its next municipal election, Mayor Mondale Robinson finds himself under scrutiny—not just for his policies, but for his place of residence and a recent police-involved incident in Maryland.

Robinson, who has served as mayor since 2022, was seriously injured in a car accident in Largo, Maryland, after swerving to avoid a herd of deer. While the crash was ruled accidental, it has raised questions about whether Robinson maintains primary residency in Maryland, which could affect his eligibility to run for re-election in Enfield.

🕵️‍♂️ Residency Scrutiny and Public Trust

North Carolina law requires municipal candidates to reside in the jurisdiction they seek to represent. While Robinson has long claimed Enfield as his home, recent reports suggest he may also reside at a Maryland address, prompting calls for investigation.

This situation has sparked broader concerns about how candidates are vetted—or not—before appearing on the ballot.

⚠️ A Broken System: Time for Reform

This election season has made one thing clear: the current system is too vulnerable to abuse. Right now, anyone can file to run for office—even if they:

• Don’t live in the district

• Have a serious criminal record

• Are under active investigation

• Have no intention of serving ethically

  
  

There is no statewide verification process to confirm a candidate’s residency, criminal background, or eligibility. Boards of Election often rely on self-reported information and only act when complaints are filed.

This is not just a loophole—it’s a threat to democracy.

📣 Call to Action: Protect the Ballot, Protect Democracy

We need legislative change to ensure that only qualified, verified candidates can run for public office in North Carolina. Here’s how you can help:

1. Contact your state legislators   Ask them to support laws that:

   • Require proof of residency (utility bills, lease, or tax records)

   • Mandate criminal background checks for all candidates

   • Establish a statewide candidate verification system

     
     

2. Attend local Board of Elections meetings   Voice your concerns and demand transparency in candidate vetting.

   
   

3. Start a petition   Mobilize your community to call for reforms at the state level.

   
   

4. Partner with civic organizations   Groups like Democracy NC and Common Cause can help amplify your voice.

   
   

5. Vote informed   Research every candidate. Don’t just take their word—demand proof.

   
   

We cannot afford to let our ballots be playgrounds for deception. Democracy begins with trust—and trust begins with truth.

Let’s fix the system before it fails us again.