Former Virginia Delegate Jay Jones, the Democratic nominee for attorney general, is under fire after revelations about a past reckless driving conviction. Court records show Jones was caught speeding at 116 mph on Interstate 64 in New Kent, Virginia, leading to a $1,500 fine.
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin criticized Jones’ actions, stating, “The job of attorney general is too important to leave to someone who would recklessly break the law and endanger the lives of others.” Youngkin also questioned Jones’ claims of completing community service, alleging he used his political operation to avoid jail time.
Jones admitted to the mistake in a statement, saying, “Several years ago, I made the mistake of speeding… I accepted responsibility for my actions, paid the fine, and fulfilled my responsibility to the court.” However, details about his community service have drawn scrutiny. Records indicate Jones’ political action committee, Meet our Moment (MOM), and the Virginia NAACP each reported he completed 500 hours of “community service.”
Incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares disputed the legitimacy of the service, arguing it was not conducted for a charitable organization as required by Virginia law. A source familiar with the case questioned whether MOM’s registration as a PAC met legal standards for court-ordered community work.
Jones’ campaign paid Lesley Shinbaum Stewart, head of MOM, over $100,000 since 2020, with an additional $6,000 payment reportedly made after the community service letter was filed. Shinbaum Stewart did not respond to requests for comment.
