Virginia AG Debate Heats Up Over Controversial Comments

During a debate on Thursday, Jay Jones, the Democratic candidate for Virginia Attorney General, found himself on the defensive over past messages he sent, in which he expressed violent sentiments towards a Republican opponent.

He was debating Republican incumbent Jason Miyares, who targeted Jones for his 2022 texts, recently disclosed, where he suggested that then-Virginia House Speaker Todd Gilbert should receive “two bullets in the head.”

The controversial messages surfaced earlier this month. In them, Jones referred to Gilbert alongside historical figures like Hitler and Pol Pot, speculating on who he might shoot if given the choice.

Jones followed this up with, “Spoiler…put Gilbert in the worst two-man crew you know, and he gets both bullets every time.”

Miayres seized the opportunity to question Jones’ integrity, stating, “We’ve seen a glimpse into who Jay Jones is and how he perceives those who disagree with him.”

He cited Abraham Lincoln, asserting, “Character is what you do in the dark when no one’s looking, and now we see what he was doing in the dark.”

After the backlash, Jones addressed his previous remarks, acknowledging, “I’m embarrassed, embarrassed, and sorry. I owe apologies to Speaker Gilbert, his family, and all Virginians.” He emphasized that the race should focus on larger issues beyond his past comments.

Jones continued, “This race was always about more than my mistakes; I have a responsibility that I deeply respect.”

While trying to shift focus, he criticized Miyares for not confronting former President Trump and highlighting various inflammatory instances from the Republican Party.

“What about when Trump incited riots? What about violent words from Winsome Sears? You said nothing. I’ve owned my errors, it’s time for you to own up as well,” he said.

Miyares didn’t hold back, directly challenging Jones’ character.

“If you applied to be a prosecutor anywhere, you wouldn’t pass a background check,” he asserted. “It took you three years to admit what you did, which is concerning.”

Jones has a history of legal troubles, including a 2022 reckless driving conviction. He went 116 mph on a Virginia interstate, leading to a plea deal that required community service. However, he reportedly completed only part of it.

Miyares further accused Jones of implying harm towards Gilbert’s children in prior messages.

“It’s surprising you talk about protecting children. Were you protecting Jennifer’s kids when you wanted them to die in their mother’s arms?” Miyares questioned.

Amid all this, Jones consistently attempted to redirect the conversation towards the Republican candidate, arguing that Miyares was merely a supporter of Trump’s policies.

“Jason supports actions that harm working people and defund schools while claiming to be a protector of our values,” he claimed.

The election for Virginia Attorney General is set for November 4th. Current polls indicate Miyares maintains a five-point lead over Jones.