Virginia AG Race Tightens with Jones Falling amid Text Scandal

Virginia Attorney General nominee Jay Jones faces significant controversy and a tightening race against incumbent GOP Attorney General Jason Miyares amid leaked violent text messages from Jones. Recent Washington Post-Schar School polling shows both candidates tied at 46% support among likely voters, marking a 5-point decline for Jones since last month. The texts, which include Jones fantasizing about violence against political opponents, have led 51% of voters to say he should drop out, though 41% support his continuation in the race. Despite the backlash, Jones has apologized, distanced himself from the comments, raised substantial campaign funds, and addressed the issue in debates. Meanwhile, Virginia Democrats like Sen. Mark Warner are distancing themselves from Jones, declining to appear at fundraisers alongside him amid Republican criticism. The attorney general race contrasts with the gubernatorial contest, where Democrat Abigail Spanberger maintains a comfortable lead, reflecting a complex and evolving political landscape in Virginia.