Mark Binker, RIP.

The passing of former WRAL reporter and current Insider editor Mark Binker was certainly a shock.

It’s one thing to tease or challenge or debate someone.  It’s all part of that First Amendment thing — “the game,” if you will. 

 But we at The Haymaker want to take a break from all that to offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Binker family.  

Things sometimes get way too personal, and vicious, when it comes to politics.  Sometimes we need to stop, take a deep breath, and realize that those are actual human beings behind those policy positions and other stuff we disagree with so vehemently.

Hopefully, by now, St. Peter has found a peaceful, comfortable spot for Mark behind those ‘pearly gates’ we all aspire to someday pass through.  (Though,  43 years old — speaking as someone five years beyond that benchmark — is way too young to be making that journey. )

Mark Binker, rest in peace.