Trump, Vance Demand Jay Jones Exit Virginia AG Race Over Violent Texts

President Donald Trump has called on Democrat Jay Jones to immediately withdraw from the Virginia Attorney General race after resurfaced 2022 text messages revealed Jones expressing violent fantasies about then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert and his children. The messages, which included references to shooting Gilbert and disparaging comments about his children, sparked bipartisan condemnation from Republicans such as Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson, who labeled Jones as "deranged" and called the texts disqualifying for public office. Jones has apologized publicly, expressing deep regret and taking responsibility, but his campaign claims the attacks from Trump and others are politically motivated. Democratic leaders, including Abigail Spanberger, have condemned the violent rhetoric and urged Jones to take responsibility. The controversy has intensified scrutiny around political discourse and violence, with concerns that aggressive political speech is contributing to rising violence nationwide. Trump meanwhile endorsed the incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares amid the dispute.