Jay Jones, the democrat running for Attorney General wished for the deathbof a political.opponent in text messages exposed by the Washungton Post. He has remain3d in the race despite calls for him to step aside. He apologuzed and continued his run. "I am ashamed. I am embarrassed. And I'm sorry," and offering an apology to Gilbert, his family, and all Virginians," he said. In tge inly debate with hus rival Jason Miyares he had a chance to facw the controversy head on and attempt to povotbfrom it. But he was in th3 defensive and comparung hus opponenr to Trump may not have been enough.
Scandal Impact: His campaign has been rocked by a scandal involving leaked 2022 text messages in which he fantasized about violence toward then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert. The messages have significantly damaged his standing in the polls.
Polling Shift: Before the scandal, Jones led Republican incumbent Jason Miyares by six points. After the texts surfaced, Miyares overtook Jones in multiple polls, with leads ranging from two to six points.
Debate Fallout: During their only debate, Jones apologized for the messages but faced intense criticism from Miyares, who framed the issue as a matter of character.
Jerrauld Jones, Jay's late father was a delegate in Virginia politics.