Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As Election Day draws near, Gloria Witt, Democratic nominee for Virginia’s 5th Congressional District, discussed key issues shaping her campaign, addressing concerns ranging from inflation to affordable housing. Emphasizing the economic pressures impacting Virginians, Witt stated, “Inflation is real… I do believe there is some corporate price gouging going on,” and pledged to investigate corporate practices that may be driving up consumer costs. With more than 30 years in corporate America, Witt also highlighted affordable housing as a critical issue, underscoring the importance of balancing market freedom with policies to make home ownership more attainable for first-time buyers. 

Immigration is another top issue on Witt’s agenda, one she feels has been used for political leverage rather than real progress. “We use immigration as a political pawn,” she noted, adding that sustainable border solutions have bipartisan support if Congress takes action. Witt stressed the need for collaboration and inclusivity within a divided House of Representatives and cited her executive coaching experience as central to building unity. “You change the culture by changing the culture of the room that you’re in,” she explained, affirming her readiness to foster bipartisan cooperation in Washington. 

In addition, Witt addressed healthcare reform as a priority, advocating for improved access to affordable, quality healthcare for all Virginians. She highlighted the burden of high prescription costs and limited preventative care options, calling it “unacceptable” that working families often have to choose between healthcare and other basic needs. Witt proposed a collaborative approach, working alongside pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers to find cost-saving solutions that wouldn’t compromise quality care. 

Listen to the full conversation here: