Simone Biles, widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time, recently found herself at the center of a heated discussion, targeted by MAGA member Mark Robinson. Robinson, a vocal figure in right-wing politics, criticized Biles for her decision to withdraw from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to mental health concerns, going as far as to call her “weak” and “unpatriotic.” His remarks sparked outrage, with many rallying behind Biles, praising her courage and strength in prioritizing her well-being.

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Robinson’s criticism is not an isolated incident. As a political figure running for governor in North Carolina, Robinson has a history of divisive rhetoric. He has openly attacked marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals and prominent female athletes like Megan Rapinoe and Brittney Griner. In his inflammatory Facebook posts, he labeled Rapinoe as a “foul-mouthed anti-American” and disparaged her for her activism, going on to call Griner a “leftist stooge” who deserved imprisonment. These remarks paint a troubling picture of a man who consistently targets those who stand up for their rights and values.

Robinson’s controversial views extend beyond his attacks on athletes. He has a disturbing record of minimizing historical atrocities, such as the Holocaust, while invoking dangerous rhetoric about using violence against perceived enemies. His inflammatory statements, which include comparisons of political opponents to historical despots, underscore his extreme stance on numerous issues. For instance, he expressed admiration for the violent response to Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor, advocating a similar approach in current conflicts, further fueling concerns about his suitability for public office.

Biles’ decision to withdraw from Olympic events due to the “twisties,” a mental block gymnasts can experience mid-air, was widely misunderstood by critics like Robinson. However, medical professionals have confirmed the serious risks associated with the twisties, which could have led to severe injury or worse if Biles had continued to compete. Her decision, far from showing weakness, displayed remarkable strength and wisdom. By prioritizing her health and safety, she set an example for athletes worldwide, proving that mental health is just as crucial as physical health.

In contrast to Robinson’s attacks, Biles’ supporters have highlighted her resilience and leadership. Many point to the long-term effects of mental health struggles in high-performance sports, emphasizing the importance of athletes taking care of themselves. For Biles, this decision was about safeguarding her future, not only as an athlete but as a person.

As the controversy surrounding Robinson continues, many are urging voters in North Carolina to carefully consider the kind of leadership they want. With his divisive rhetoric and history of targeting marginalized groups, Robinson’s rise to power poses serious concerns for the state. His attacks on Biles and other prominent figures demonstrate not only a lack of empathy but also a troubling worldview that has no place in modern governance.

Simone Biles, despite the criticism, continues to inspire millions with her poise, strength, and unwavering commitment to her well-being and those around her. In the face of adversity, she has shown the world what true courage looks like, proving that strength isn’t about never falling – it’s about knowing when to step back and protect oneself. And in this case, Biles has had the last laugh, standing tall in the face of bigotry and hate.