President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance demanded that Jay Jones, Virginia’s Democratic nominee for attorney general, withdraw from the race after violent text messages resurfaced. The messages, sent in August 2022, included explicit threats against a Republican lawmaker, his wife, and children.
Trump condemned the texts on Truth Social, stating they demonstrated “sick and demented” behavior. He criticized Jones for mocking the murder of Republican House Delegate Carrie Coyner’s husband, referring to him as “Gilbert,” and described plans to kill him with “two bullets to the head.” Trump also praised incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares, calling him a “great” leader who would not let Virginians down.
Vance echoed the call for Jones to step aside, labeling the messages “deranged” and urging voters to reject such rhetoric. The texts, obtained by media outlets, revealed Jones fantasizing about violence against political opponents. Initially, Jones refused to apologize but later reached out to Gilbert’s family, expressing regret for his remarks.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger condemned the messages but stopped short of demanding Jones’ withdrawal. She emphasized the need for accountability in political discourse. The controversy emerged amid rising concerns over political violence, including the recent shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Jones faced further scrutiny after apologizing for the texts, calling them a “grave mistake.” However, his initial refusal to acknowledge wrongdoing fueled widespread criticism from both parties.
