Youngkin, House Speaker Johnson call on Jay Jones to leave AG race after violent texts surface

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has sharply criticized Democratic attorney general candidate Jay Jones, calling for him to withdraw from the race “in disgrace” after previously sent text messages surfaced that made violent references to former Republican legislative leader.

According to August 2022 text messages obtained by the media, Jones wrote the following to Delegate Carrie Coyner:

“Three people, two bullets. Gilbert, Hitler and Pol Pot. Gilbert gets two bullets to the head.” 

Jones’ remarks targeted then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert, a Republican, and reportedly included a statement wishing harm to his children. 

He also wrote that he would urinate on Gilbert's grave if he died before him.

Jones is running against Republican incumbent Jason Miyares.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also called on Jones to leave the race.

"These text messages are plainly disqualifying for anyone who aspires to public office. There is no conceivable justification for wishing violence against a political opponent and their children," he wrote on X. " Mr. Jay Jones should immediately withdraw his candidacy, save himself and his party from further embarrassment, and take some time to reflect."