Northam believes abolishing death penalty the moral thing to do Clark Palmer March 25, 2021 1 minute read Gov. Ralph Northam Governor Northam has signed legislation that makes Virginia the first southern state to eliminate the death penalty. WFIR’s Clark Palmer has the story Share: Post navigation Previous: Roanoke City Manager discusses gun violence at all levelsNext: VDH releases latest coronavirus data from Roanoke Valley Related Stories Local political scientist says US-Iran deal looks to be a good step forward Gene Marrano June 16, 2026 Virginia moves toward legal cannabis sales after budget compromise Ian Price June 16, 2026 USA Cycling Mountain Biking Championships adds another year – back in Roanoke Valley for 2027 Gene Marrano June 15, 2026