Overview

• National Review published 2022 texts in which Jay Jones wrote that former House Speaker Todd Gilbert should get "two bullets to the head" and said he would "piss on" Republicans' graves.
• Republican Del. Carrie Coyner, the recipient, confirmed the exchange and called the messages disturbing and disqualifying.
• Jones acknowledged the texts, issued a public apology to Gilbert and his family, said he contacted them directly, and told local TV he will stay in the attorney general race.
• Republican groups and leaders, including the Republican Attorneys General Association and Gov. Glenn Youngkin, urged Jones to withdraw, while prominent Democrats such as Abigail Spanberger condemned the language and pressed him to take responsibility.
• Separate reporting about Jones’ 2022 reckless driving plea and community service tied to his own PAC has added scrutiny as polls show a competitive contest already on the ballot.