Local lawmakers react to Ralph Smith’s announcement Gene Marrano March 17, 2015 1 minute read There will be no incumbent in the State Senate race for the 19th District with Republican Ralph Smith bowing out … WFIR’s Gene Marrano spoke yesterday with the Democratic contender for that seat about the campaign: Share: Post navigation Previous: New United Way President meets supporters in RoanokeNext: Survey of GW National Forest for pipeline wins US OK Related Stories 2 minutes read Extreme cold warning issued after Winter Storm Fern moves out of Roanoke Valley Ian Price January 26, 2026 0 2 minutes read Virginia Tech researcher tests future-focused method to help smokers quit Web Staff January 26, 2026 0 1 minute read Appalachian Power is gearing up for winter storm; wants customers to support power outages Gene Marrano January 23, 2026 0