During a debate on Thursday, Democratic candidate for governor in Virginia, Abigail Spanberger, faced considerable scrutiny regarding her backing of attorney general candidate Jay Jones. This came after a text message emerged where she mentioned wanting to put “two bullets” into the head of Todd Gilbert, the then-Republican Speaker of the House in Virginia.
The debate moderator, alongside Spanberger’s Republican opponent, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earl Sears, pressed her on whether she still supported Jones. However, Spanberger avoided directly stating she would withdraw her support. She also refrained from disclosing when she first learned about the offensive text messages, which included alarming comments about Gilbert’s young children.
“Jay Jones talked about the murder of a man, a former public speaker named Abigail, and his children, who are very young. Should he really pull the trigger? Is that okay?” Sears questioned. She suggested Spanberger should consider stepping out of the race, urging her to show some courage.
The ongoing scandal surrounding the texts has become a key issue in the campaign. The context of violent political expression has become particularly sensitive, especially after recent violent incidents, including the assassination of Charlie Kirk and attempts on former President Donald Trump’s life.
The moderator directly asked Spanberger, “So, do you still support Jay Jones as your candidate for attorney general?” In response, she emphasized that it’s up to voters to make their own decisions. “I am running for governor, and I take full responsibility for my words and actions,” she stated. “I’m accountable for the policies I advocate and the work I commit to for the people.”
Spanberger criticized Sears for only speaking out against violence when it affects her party, pointing to a moment last month when President Trump allegedly expressed animosity towards his opponents during a memorial service for Kirk. “It’s crucial for candidates to denounce violence across the board,” Spanberger noted, asserting that her counterparts only condemn it when it’s aimed at their own party.
In response to Spanberger’s allegations, Sears did not criticize Trump’s comments but remarked that such language was not something she would use herself. “I’ve made it clear, I don’t say that,” Sears affirmed.
