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All but three precincts in Southwest Roanoke County are in the 8th District, now represented by Del. Morgan Griffith, R-Salem. He's running for re-election against Democrat Carter Turner. We put the same five questions to both candidates, and here's what they had to say.

Here's a link to Turner's answers; Griffith's answers are below:

1. What is the most important issue facing Virginia during the next four years?

The overall economy and its effect on the state’s budget, as well as the resulting challenges directly related to the current revenue shortfall, is the most important issue facing Virginia now. Moreover, it is likely to remain an issue into the immediate future.

2. How do you propose to deal with this issue?

The right course is the one taken in the early 1990s. By avoiding raising taxes in the challenged economy, Virginia was well-positioned to lead the way to recovery. As a result, our economy grew faster than our neighbors, in part making us America’s best state for business.

3. What is the best decision that the General Assembly has made in recent years, and why do you think this was the best?

By enacting some of the nation’s toughest and most innovative laws to combat sexually violent predators, Virginia has taken a lead in dealing with a major public safety threat to our citizens. Providing for public safety is one of the core functions of government, and by enacting tough measures against these criminals, we have enhanced the safety of all Virginians.

4. What is the worst decision that the General Assembly has made in recent years, and why do you think this was the worst?

Measures that limit or restrict the freedom and liberties of law-abiding citizens take us in the wrong direction, such as “photo-red” traffic cameras. There is a presumption of guilt when you receive a ticket from this camera, and you must prove your innocence: this is unjust and erroneous.

5. What else should voters know about you before casting their vote?

Even though my responsibilities as Majority Leader give me an important statewide leadership role, my focus as Delegate continues to be improving the quality of life for the people of the Roanoke Valley.

Note: The precincts of Clearbrook, Hunting Hills and Ogden are in the 17th District, where Del. William Fralin is retiring and Republican Bill Cleaveland and Democrat Gwen Mason are running to succeed him. We're working on getting a Q&A with both of those candidates.