Spanberger says Jones’ murderous texts were a “poor choice” in a new interview.
In 2022, Virginia attorney general candidate Jay Jones sent a shocking text wishing violence against former Republican House Speaker Todd Gilbert and his children — messages that ignited outrage from Republicans and discomfort among Democrats.
While some Dems demanded Jones drop out, others — including gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger — have stood by him. As of last week, Spanberger’s campaign website was still selling merchandise endorsing Jones’ bid for office.
During an interview on Monday with WTVR CBS 6 host Bill Fitzgerald, Spanberger was pressed about her support.
“So there’s been a bit of a distraction, as you’re well aware,” Fitzgerald said. “Last week there was a debate among the attorney general candidates. Were you satisfied with the Democratic candidate, Jay Jones’ apology for the texts that he had sent that were seemingly threatening the life of then-House Speaker [Gilbert]?”
Spanberger replied, “Well, I want to begin by, first, you know, condemning clearly the texts that he sent to a colleague. And I condemned them as soon as I learned of them and, you know, called on Jay Jones to publicly explain himself. And I think that he’s been quite clear in his apologies and in his taking ownership of that poor choice.”
Apologies aside — the controversy still burns. Democrats waver, but Spanberger’s loyalty speaks volumes.
Watch the clip below:
COWARD.
Abigail Spanberger dismisses Jay Jones' threatening text messages as a "poor choice."
Jones threatened to kill his political opponent and wished death on his children.
Spanberger refuses to do the right thing and revoke her endorsement of her vile running mate. pic.twitter.com/pANJDlwWPe
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) October 21, 2025
Meanwhile, President Trump was asked about Jones’ comments; he called Jones an “animal,” adding “anybody would be in prison for what he did.”
“You mean the one that wanted to kill some of his children and kill somebody? You mean the animal that wanted to kill somebody who should not be allowed to be running for that office?” Trump said when asked about Jones.
“He’s a third-rate intellect, he’s a guy who – I’ve never seen anybody say what he said, that he wanted to kill his opponent’s children – he wanted to kill his opponent,” Trump said. “I can’t imagine anybody voting for Jay Jones. Look, you would think he’s totally discredited. I would think he wouldn’t even be allowed to do that; anybody would be put in prison for what he said.”
“He can join a long list of attorney generals that have been suing and losing,” Trump added.
Watch the clip below:
Reporter: “Jay Jones in Virginia…”
Trump: “You mean the one that wanted to kill somebody’s children? You mean the animal that wanted to kill somebody, who should not be allowed to be running for that office?”pic.twitter.com/jD9HyDn1eo
— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) October 20, 2025
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