Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones Faces Controversy but Maintains Support

Virginia’s Democratic Attorney General Jay Jones is still backed by nearly 200 endorsements from various groups, elected officials, and notable Democrats, despite the resurfacing of controversial text messages from 2022. In these texts, Jones commented on former Republican House Speaker Todd Gilbert, mentioning that his children were facing dire circumstances. As of Monday, October 6, none of his supporters have publicly asked him to withdraw from the race.

Last week, a fallout occurred after a message was revealed between Jones and Republican representative Carrie Coiner. He stated that he would choose to film Gilbert over two dictators, which Coiner confirmed included a reference to Gilbert’s children’s dying situation, described as “in his mother’s arms.” Jones later issued an apology, taking “full responsibility” for his remarks and expressing deep regret.

In the wake of these events, Jones has been seeking endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Some notable figures, such as Vice President JD Vance and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, have criticized his statements. Additionally, the incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares labeled Jones’s remarks as “disqualifying.” Meanwhile, a recent advertisement released by Wyn Earl Sears, running for governor, urged voters to “reject madness” while emphasizing Democratic support for Jones.

Support Across the Board

Jones’s campaign website lists endorsements from several prominent figures, including Senator Cory Booker, former Virginia Governors Terry McAuliffe and Ralph S. Northam, and other notable politicians. His supporters in the Virginia Legislature also reflect a range of backing.

Legislative Endorsements

Here’s a brief list of those who have endorsed Jones:

• Senator Rushleck Aird – Petersburg
• Senator Lamont Bagby – Henrico
• Senator Barbara Fabola – Arlington
• Senator Mommy Rock – Hampton (Speaker, Senate Democrats Caucus)
• Senator Jeremy McPike – Prince William
• Senator Stella Pekarsky – Fairfax
• Senator Russet Perry – Loudon
• Senator Kannan Srinivasan – Loudon
• Senator Schuyler Vanvalkenburg – Henrico
• Senator Angelia Williams Graves – Norfolk

Political Backing from Representatives

• Del. Alex Askew – Virginia Beach
• Del. Bonita Anthony – Norfolk
• Del. Destiny Levere Bolling – Henrico
• Del. David Bulova – Fairfax
• Del. Katrina Calles – Charlottesville
• Del. Nadarius Clark – Suffolk
• Del. Laura Jane Cohen – Fairfax
• Del. Joshua Call – Stafford
• Del. Ray Cousins – Richmond
• Del. Karrie Delaney – Fairfax

Support from Labor and Advocacy Groups

Major labor unions and advocacy organizations have also continued their support for Jones. Notable unions backing him include AFL-CIO, SEIU Virginia, and the Teamsters Union, among others.

• AFL-CIO
• AFSCME
• SEIU Virginia Legislature
• Teamsters Union
• Virginia Professional Firefighter
• United We Rise

In terms of advocacy, organizations like Giffords PAC and the Sierra Club Virginia Branch have also expressed support, reflecting a broad coalition standing by Jones.

Despite the controversies, the Virginia Beach Democracy Committee reaffirmed its support for Jones, describing the recent report on his comments as an opportunity for reflection on past mistakes, highlighting his commitment to integrity and accountability.

As the election for Virginia Attorney General draws closer, discussions surrounding Jones’s statements have intensified, with opponents calling for his resignation. However, none of the noted supporters have retracted their statements of support as of Monday evening.