Democrat Jay Jones was projected as the winner of Virginia’s attorney general race despite facing scrutiny over violent text messages he sent to a Republican lawmaker, including fantasies about shooting then-GOP House Speaker Todd Gilbert and his children. The scandal dominated the campaign, with state and national figures urging Jones to withdraw, but he secured victory over incumbent Republican Jason Miyares, who had aligned with former President Donald J. Trump’s policies.
Jones defeated Miyares in a race that centered on abortion rights and criticism of Trump-era agendas, despite trailing gubernatorial winner Abigail Spanberger by five points. The controversy intensified as Republican ads highlighted Jones’ messages, with gubernatorial candidate Winsome Earle-Sears amplifying the issue. Jones issued an apology but faced fundraising challenges, with Democratic leaders avoiding direct support until a rally featuring former President Barack Obama in Norfolk.
The win marks another state where Democrats now hold the attorney general’s office, expanding their influence across 22 states.
