Jay Jones apologizes for texting scandal in Virginia debate, blasts Miyares as 'Trump cheerleader'

Virginia Democratic Attorney General nominee Jay Jones on Thursday night apologized for his texts in which he claimed that he wanted to shoot a political opponent, and tried to link incumbent Attorney General Jason Miyares to President Donald Trump.

Jones has been engulfed in a scandal over texts he sent to a Democratic state representative regarding then-state House Speaker Todd Gilbert, saying he "gets two bullets to the head," in a hypothetical room with Adolf Hitler and Pol Pot. 

The Democrat used his opening remarks of the attorney general debate to apologize for the texts, stating that he was "ashamed," and said he respected his party for holding him accountable for his "mistakes," The Hill reported.

“Let me be very clear: I am ashamed, I am embarrassed and I am sorry," Jones said. "I am sorry to Speaker Gilbert, I am sorry to his family, and I am sorry to every single Virginian." 

He was later asked why voters should trust him over Miyares when he sent the texts and was convicted in 2022 of reckless driving.

“I was held accountable by my party and I deeply, deeply respect that,” Jones said. “But what about when Donald Trump used incendiary language to incite a riot to try to overturn an election here in this country? What about when Winsome Sears used violent language about people who disagree with you and her on your extreme position on abortion ... You haven’t said a word. I have taken accountability for my mistakes, it’s time you take accountability too.”

Jones also blasted Miyares as a "willing cheerleader" of Trump who would not hold the president accountable for issues opposed by Virginia voters. 

Miyares slammed Jones as a "criminal-first, victim-last politician," who was not a "safe" choice to protect Virginians.

"I find it a little bit stunning that today you say one of the pillars of your public safety platform is protecting children," Miyares said. "Were you protecting Jennifer’s children when you said you wanted to see them die in their mother’s arms?”

Miyares also condemned Jones over his voting record when it comes to transgender athletes and protecting women.

Virginia's election day will take place on Nov. 4, when voters will also decide the state's governor. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.