NBC News Projects Democrat Jay Jones Wins Virginia Attorney General Race
Democrat Jay Jones has emerged victorious in the race for Virginia attorney general, as projected by NBC News. His win comes despite a text message scandal that could have jeopardized his campaign. Jones defeated incumbent Republican Jason Miyares, who had held the position for one term.
Key Events Leading Up to Jones’ Victory
The election garnered national attention due to violent text messages sent by Jones in 2022. These messages, which surfaced last month, included references to then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert and suggested violent actions against him. Specifically, Jones stated, “Gilbert gets two bullets to the head,” drawing strong criticism across party lines.
- The messages were first reported by the National Review.
- Jones issued an apology, expressing embarrassment and regret for his words.
- He emphasized that he was not in office at the time of the remarks.
Bipartisan Backlash and Political Implications
Following the revelations, both Republicans and some Democrats condemned Jones but did not universally call for him to withdraw from the race. Virginia voters were aware of the controversy: an NBC News exit poll indicated that 45% felt the messages disqualified Jones from serving as attorney general.
This controversy also became a focal point in the governor’s race, with Republican candidate Winsome Earle-Sears urging Democrat Abigail Spanberger to denounce Jones. Spanberger condemned the messages yet did not call for Jones to end his campaign, suggesting voters should decide based on the context.
Election Day and Voter Sentiment
On Election Day, Jones led by a narrow margin of 2%, while Spanberger, running for governor, was comfortably ahead by 11 points with 68% of the votes counted. Nielsen polls revealed that 9% of Spanberger’s supporters opted for Miyares, indicating some crossover voting.
Jones’s campaign focused on the perception that Miyares would not hold former President Donald Trump accountable. Of Virginia voters who strongly disapproved of Trump’s presidency, a substantial 91% cast their votes for Jones.
Trump’s Influence
In the lead-up to the election, Trump hosted a tele-rally encouraging Virginians to support Miyares, explicitly urging votes for him and the broader Republican slate. Miyares, aged 49, had begun his term in 2022 after serving in the Legislature.
- Jay Jones: 36, former state representative and assistant attorney general in D.C.
- Jason Miyares: 49, incumbent attorney general.
Ultimately, Jones’s win illustrates the complex dynamics of Virginia politics, especially amidst ongoing discussions about political rhetoric and accountability.
