Political Analyst Warns AG Ballot Swap Could Confuse Voters; VT Weighs Hotel Roanoke Sale — Oct 8

Lead story: WFIR-exclusive analysis — Radford University Political Science Chair Chapman Rackaway explains how replacing Jay Jones on the ballot could create confusion at the polls, even though Virginia law allows swaps within 60 days of the election. He outlines why that risk may be keeping Jones in the race—and how staying in could still backfire.Also today:🗳 Wason Center snapshot (pre-scandal): Slightly narrower margins across statewide races; next poll will capture any fallout.💬 Coyner statement: 2022 texts were meant for another person; she shared them with Todd Gilbert at the time.⚖️ Youngkin vs. Kaine: Split over whether Jones should step aside.💸 Shutdown & premiums: Sen. Mark Warner says ACA subsidies lapsing would spike costs for Roanoke-area families.🏨 Hotel Roanoke: Virginia Tech Foundation explores a potential sale; conference-center expansion paused during talks.🎶 Spot on Kirk: Annual fundraiser brings an eclectic lineup Saturday.🐶 Glenvar dog attack: Owner Tiffany Turner charged, including felony failure to control a dog causing injury.🌳 Parks fix fast-track: Vice Mayor Terry McGuire says adding maintenance staff is the quickest way to improve city parks.🏗 Campbell Co. data center: Supervisors vote it down after resident pushback.🦨 Vinton skunk season: More sightings expected; call only if animals appear sick or aggressive.Listen: Find News Express on Spotify or tap the “News Express” tab at WFIRNews.com.