Virginia Democrats Defend AG Nominee Jay Jones Amid Violent GOP Texts

Virginia Democrat Attorney General nominee Jay Jones has sparked significant controversy after disturbing texts he sent in 2022 to Republican Delegate Carrie Coyner surfaced, in which he fantasized about assassinating GOP House Speaker Todd Gilbert and expressed violent sentiments toward him and his family. Despite the backlash, Virginia Democrats, including gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger, have largely stood by Jones, with Spanberger condemning the language but stopping short of calling for his withdrawal from the race. The texts, first reported by National Review, revealed Jones' anger over tributes to a late Democratic legislator and included graphic remarks such as wishing Gilbert's wife could watch her children die to influence his policy views. Jones initially dismissed the criticism as a smear campaign but later issued an apology, though he has not stepped aside. The controversy has drawn sharp criticism for the Democrats' perceived double standard, especially given Spanberger's past calls for resignation over less severe incidents, and has raised questions about Jones' fitness for office. Local media and political commentators have called for accountability in light of Jones' violent rhetoric and its implications for Virginia's political climate.