Jay Jones, the Democratic candidate for Virginia Attorney General, is under scrutiny following reports of violent text messages he sent in 2022, where he expressed a desire to harm a Republican politician. The controversy raises questions about his endorsement by various left-leaning organizations, including Moms Demand Action, which advocates for gun safety measures.
Jones, a former delegate in the Virginia House of Delegates, reportedly stated in a text message that if given the choice to kill three individuals, he would choose to shoot then-state House Speaker Todd Gilbert, a Republican, with "two bullets to the head." (Www.fec — fec.gov) These messages were first reported by National Review.
In a conversation with Republican Delegate Carrie Coyner, Jones allegedly suggested that he wished Gilbert's wife could witness the death of her child to influence Gilbert's political views. Critics have condemned these comments as violent and unacceptable, raising concerns about Jones' suitability for public office.
Moms Demand Action, founded by Shannon Watts in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy in 2012, promotes gun safety and has endorsed Jones, displaying its Gun Sense Candidate seal on his campaign page. However, the organization has not publicly addressed the violent nature of Jones' texts. The Federalist reached out to multiple organizations endorsing Jones for comment, but many did not respond.
Joel McDonald, chairman of LGBT+ Democrats of Virginia, confirmed their continued support for Jones, stating, "There’s been no reconsideration of his endorsement." (Www.fec — fec.gov) This response contrasts with the silence from other endorsing groups, including Planned Parenthood Advocates and various labor unions.
There’s been no reconsideration of his endorsement.
Jones has since issued statements expressing regret for his past comments, stating, "Like all people, I’ve sent text messages that I regret and I believe that violent rhetoric has no place in our politics." (Www.fec — fec.gov) He attributed the controversy to political attacks from his opponent, incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares, claiming that Miyares is using media to undermine his character.
Like all people, I’ve sent text messages that I regret and I believe that violent rhetoric has no place in our politics.
Virginia Senator Tim Kaine defended Jones, stating, "The comments are completely indefensible... I’m still supporting Jay Jones." (Www.fec — fec.gov) Kaine emphasized his long-standing relationship with Jones, suggesting that the comments do not reflect his true character.
The ongoing support for Jones from various left-leaning groups raises questions about their commitment to the principles of gun safety and political civility. Critics argue that the endorsement of a candidate who has made such violent statements undermines their stated goals.
As the election approaches, the implications of Jones' comments and the responses from his supporters may influence voter perceptions and the broader political landscape in Virginia.
Why it matters
- Primary documents and sources are linked for verification.
- Jay Jones faces backlash for violent texts, raising concerns about his fitness for office and the integrity of his endorsements.
- The controversy challenges the credibility of organizations like Moms Demand Action, which promotes gun safety yet endorses Jones.
- Support from prominent Democrats, including Senator Tim Kaine, highlights a divide in responses to Jones' comments and their implications for the election.
What’s next
- Calls for Moms Demand Action to address the situation and clarify their stance on Jones' violent rhetoric.
- Voter reactions to Jones' comments may shape the upcoming election, influencing campaign strategies for both parties.
- Investigations into the impact of violent rhetoric in political campaigns may be prompted by this controversy.