Virginia Lieutenant Colonel Launches Controversial Campaign Ad
Lieutenant Colonel Virginia, who is running for governor, has unveiled a campaign advertisement that highlights text messages from 2022 sent by Democrat Jay Jones, a candidate for Attorney General.
The one-minute video, posted recently, features a series of news clips from 2022 describing Jones as “on fire” after a message from another individual, Gilbert, stated, “I have to shoot.” One news anchor notes that Jones suggested Gilbert’s wife, who witnessed the tragic death of their child, should reconsider her political stance. Another part of the ad refers to remarks made by Jones that link Gilbert to historical figures like Hitler and Pol Pot, emphasizing the severity of Gilbert’s situation. An additional clip poses a provocative question about the ethics of political figures.
The advertisement also incorporates footage of Democratic gubernatorial candidate, Rep. Abigail Spanberger. As her quote appears on the screen—”I’m Excited with Jay Jones”—the clip highlights her enthusiasm about campaigning alongside him.
Throughout the ad, Spanberger is shown delivering campaign speeches, including remarks about the necessity for an Attorney General who truly represents the people. A recurring line in the ad, “Your Wrath Fuels You,” leads to the concluding message advocating for Republican votes: “Reject Madness.”
In a recent interview, Jones addressed the fallout from his comments, expressing deep regret and a desire to regain public trust. Contrastingly, the ad features him stating that personal pain often motivates people to pursue changes in policy.
Governor Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) reacted to the ad, describing Jones’ messaging as “violent” and “overwhelming,” asserting that such rhetoric disqualifies him from the race. Youngkin pointed out that those comments seem to target elected officials and their families, questioning Jones’ moral integrity.
Former President Donald Trump also commented, supporting Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares’ call for Jones to withdraw from the race, labeling Jones’ comments as “illness and dementia.”
Miyares criticized Jones’ remarks, claiming they disqualify him from serving as Virginia’s top law enforcement officer, emphasizing that this role should be conducted with impartiality and character.
Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson added to the calls for Jones to step back from the campaign, with Johnson stating there is no room for inciting violence against political opponents and their families.
Candidate Earl Sears condemned the texts targeting Spanberger, linking them to a wider pattern of aggression from Democratic leaders. She argued that Jones’ statements are indicative of a deeper issue, citing a culture of hatred among some Democrats.
The release of this advertisement comes as the gubernatorial race in Virginia tightens. A recent poll from September shows Spanberger leading, albeit narrowly, with results falling within the margin of error.
There has been ongoing controversy surrounding Spanberger’s allies. Recently, a member of the Chesterfield County Board of Education received backlash for praising the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The Spanberger campaign distanced itself from any inflammatory comments following Kirk’s murder, firmly stating that differences in opinion should not incite violence.
