Virginia AG Nominee Jay Jones Under Fire for Violent 2022 Texts Ahead of November Election
Virginia AG Nominee Jay Jones Under Fire for Violent 2022 Texts Ahead of November Election
Virginia’s Democratic nominee for Attorney General, Jay Jones, is currently embroiled in widespread controversy as offensive text messages he sent in 2022 have resurfaced, drawing condemnation from across the political spectrum just weeks before the November statewide elections.
The private exchanges, initially reported by The National Review and subsequently obtained by CNN, reveal Jones making alarming remarks. In a conversation with Republican Virginia Delegate Carrie Coyner, Jones expressed frustration over then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert, writing, “Three people, two bullets. Gilbert, hitler, and pol pot. Gilbert gets two bullets to the head.” Further texts reportedly referred to Gilbert’s children as “breeding little fascists.”
Jones has issued a public apology, stating, “I take full responsibility for my actions, and I want to issue my deepest apology to Speaker Gilbert and his family. Reading back those words made me sick to my stomach. I am embarrassed, ashamed, and sorry.” He confirmed his intention to remain in the race during a local television interview.
The backlash has been swift and severe. Delegate Coyner called Jones’ statements “disturbing but disqualifying.” The Republican Attorneys General Association has launched a website, ‘jayjonestexts.com,’ urging Jones to withdraw. Prominent Virginia Republicans, including Governor Glenn Youngkin and Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, have denounced the remarks. Even fellow Democrats, such as U.S. Senator Mark Warner and gubernatorial nominee Abigail Spanberger, have distanced themselves, calling the comments “appalling” and demanding Jones take full responsibility.
The controversy unfolds amid heightened national sensitivity to political violence, following recent high-profile incidents. Early voting for Virginia’s crucial statewide races in November is already underway. Polling conducted before the texts emerged indicated a tight race, with Jones holding a slight lead over incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares, suggesting the resurfaced messages could significantly impact the election outcome.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.