Virginia police union calls on Democrat candidate for AG to resign over sending violent texts

A Virginia police union is calling on the Democratic candidate in the state's Attorney General race to withdraw immediately, following revelations he sent violent text messages about a former Republican legislative leader.

According to August 2022 text messages obtained by National Review, the candidate, Jay Jones, wrote the following to Virginia 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. 

The Virginia Fraternal Order of Police on Monday sent a letter to Jones, condemning his rhetoric and calling on him to withdraw from the race.

"While this incident may have occurred in 2022, this conduct has no place in our society or democracy, especially from an elected official who is running to be the top prosecutor in Virginia," the FOP wrote. "The men and women of the Virginia Fraternal Order unequivocally condemn these violent text messages sent by you about a political opponent and his family."

"Therefore, the members of the Virginia Fraternal Order of Police believe that you, Jay Jones, are unfit for the office of Attorney General of Virginia. It is time you hold yourself accountable for these actions and withdraw from the Attorney General race immediately," they also wrote.

Jones apologized Friday, saying he takes “full responsibility” for his actions.

“Reading back those words made me sick to my stomach. I am embarrassed, ashamed, and sorry,” Jones said. He added that he reached out to apologize directly to Gilbert and his family.