CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – With Election Day nearing, Republican incumbent State Senator John McGuire and Democratic candidate Gloria Witt are presenting distinctly different policy approaches as they vie for Virginia’s 5th Congressional District seat. From economic concerns to immigration policy, each candidate highlights their priorities in a race that reflects both national debates and local issues.

The Economy

McGuire: “Everything is more expensive. Interest rates were around 2% a few years ago, and now they’ve gone up over 7%. Inflation was around 2%; now it’s higher. What government can do is make decisions to incentivize businesses to grow. The corporate rate was lowered to 21% under the Trump administration, but raising it to 28% would devastate businesses.”

Witt: “Corporate America is making more profit than ever before. What’s happening here? I believe there’s some corporate price gouging going on, especially in the food industry. We need to look into it. Affordability of housing is also a big issue, and I support creating pathways for first-time homebuyers and incentivizing developers to offset costs.”

Immigration

McGuire: “Every county, city, and town has become a border state. We need to know who’s coming into our country. I support a return to the ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy because it worked. We love all people, but you can’t sustain the system without control over our borders.”

Witt: “We’ve got to admit that we use immigration as a political pawn. Immigration is a strategic tool that can be managed effectively. I believe in processing people efficiently, getting them into work quickly, or sending them back if they don’t qualify. Ninety percent of those coming across are good people looking for an opportunity.”

Healthcare

McGuire: “I think market-based solutions are best. If we become energy dominant, the cost to heat your home, buy groceries, and commute all goes down. Lower taxes and incentivizing businesses helps families manage their expenses.”

Witt: “Healthcare is fundamental. It’s not only about access to facilities but also about broadband connectivity, especially in rural communities. Connectivity expands healthcare services and improves access to the resources people need. I believe it’s a priority.”

Approach to Leadership and Unity

McGuire: “If you saved my life on the battlefield, I don’t care if you’re Democrat or Republican; we’re all Americans. I’ve worked across the aisle for six years, passing bills with every single Democrat and Republican. We can disagree without being disagreeable.”

Witt: “You change the culture by changing the culture of the room you’re in. I’ve worked 40 years in corporate America and as an executive coach. My philosophy is to listen, collaborate, and respect others’ humanity. That’s how we move people and organizations forward.”

Each candidate presents voters with a distinct vision on the issues most important to Virginia’s 5th District, reflecting both local needs and broader national debates.

The full interviews from their appearances on the Morning Show with Jay James are linked below.

Listen to John McGuire’s full interview:

Listen to Gloria Witt’s full interview: