MARION, Va. (WJHL) — Republican Virginia gubernatorial candidate Winsome Earle-Sears stopped by Marion Thursday afternoon to speak with small business owners regarding how her campaign may benefit them.

The event was held at the General Francis Marion Hotel on East Main Street.

Earle-Sears was joined by Republican Congressman Morgan Griffith.

Earle-Sears spoke a great deal regarding nuclear project investments in Southwest Virginia. In July, the Virginia Department of Energy announced it was moving forward with plans to place a nuclear reactor in the region, most likely in Wise County.

Earle-Sears said nuclear energy would increase jobs in the region and boost the state's economy.

"We want you to succeed in the Southwest," she said. "If you succeed, Virginia succeeds. If that program

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