Overview

• National Review published 2022 texts Jones sent to GOP Del. Carrie Coyner suggesting former House Speaker Todd Gilbert should be shot, and The Washington Post reviewed the screenshots.
• Jones has not disputed the messages’ authenticity and apologized, saying he is "deeply, deeply sorry" and has reached out to Gilbert, yet he remains in the race.
• President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance urged Jones to withdraw, and incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares said the remarks are disqualifying.
• Democrats are divided as figures like Abigail Spanberger condemned the language without calling for an exit, while local groups including Virginia Beach Democrats reaffirmed support.
• The controversy has moved onto national airwaves with MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough saying Jones should step aside, and analysts caution the fallout could affect Virginia’s Nov. 4 elections, where a recent poll showed Jones leading.