Jay Jones Wins Virginia Attorney General Race Despite Controversy Over Violent Texts, CNN Projects

Democrat Jay Jones will be Virginia’s next attorney general, CNN’s Decision Desk projects, defeating incumbent Republican Jason Miyares in a closely watched and controversial race.

Jones’ victory comes despite the disclosure of inflammatory text messages in which he made violent remarks about a Republican lawmaker, sparking bipartisan criticism. The Norfolk Democrat repeatedly apologized for the messages, calling them “embarrassing and inexcusable.”

Virginia Democrats, including top statewide leaders, condemned Jones’ comments but stopped short of withdrawing their endorsements. His win suggests that voters either accepted his apologies or prioritized policy issues over the controversy.

Throughout his campaign, Jones positioned himself as a fighter for Virginians affected by federal policies under President Donald Trump, frequently tying Miyares to the former president. He also leaned on his record as a former assistant attorney general and his family’s long history of public service. His father, Jerrauld Jones, served as a circuit court judge and a member of the Virginia House of Delegates.

Miyares, who sought reelection after becoming Virginia’s first Latino attorney general in 2021, emphasized public safety and described himself as “the people’s protector.” Backed by Trump, he campaigned on a tough-on-crime platform but faced strong Democratic turnout across the state.

Jones’ victory completes a Democratic sweep of Virginia’s top statewide offices, with Abigail Spanberger winning the governor’s race and Ghazala Hashmi elected lieutenant governor.

Credit: CNN Newsource

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.