Virginia AG Race Intensifies Following Text Message Controversy
Ken Martin, the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, expressed in a recent interview that he thinks most Virginians will accept the apology from Jay Jones, the party’s attorney general candidate, regarding some recently revealed violent text messages.
During the interview with Politico, Martin described the texts sent by Jones in 2022 about the shooting of former Virginia House Speaker Todd Gilbert as “reckless and unacceptable,” a sentiment Jones himself acknowledged.
“He’s taken responsibility for his remarks and has apologized to the former speaker and the people of Virginia,” Martin stated. “Free and fair elections are vital. Ultimately, it’s up to Virginia voters to decide. This race is unique, and the people of Virginia will choose who they want as their next attorney general.”
“I believe that most Virginians will accept this apology and will vote for Jay Jones,” he added.
At the time the texts were sent, Jones was not elected. He had texted Republican state Rep. Carrie Coyner regarding the Gilbert shooting.
In one message, Jones referred to the event, saying, “Three people, two bullets,” and went on to make inflammatory comparisons: “Gilbert, Hitler, and Pol Pot. Gilbert receives two bullets in the head.”
He further remarked, “Spoiler: If you put Gilbert in the worst two-person crew you know, he’ll take both bullets every time,” which prompted Coyner to ask him to stop.
After these messages became public earlier this month, Jones issued apologies both during the debate in Richmond and after the texts were disclosed.
The controversy has had a significant impact on the electoral race, with Republicans urging the Democratic Party to withdraw Jones from candidacy.
Amid the fallout from the texts, internal polls have indicated a tightening race. Jones’ campaign shared a poll from Hart Research indicating Jones leading with 46% compared to Republican candidate Miyares’ 45%. However, a separate poll from Signal, released by the Republican Attorneys Association, showed Miyares slightly ahead at 46% to Jones’ 44%. A third poll from the Trafalgar Group indicated Miyares had an even larger lead, at 49% to 43% for Jones.
