Jay Jones to Face Jason Miyares in Virginia Attorney General Showdown

Former Virginia Delegate Jay Jones clinched the Democratic nomination for attorney general, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with incumbent Republican Jason Miyares this November. Jones, a former assistant attorney general, emerged victorious in the Democratic primary, promising to shield Virginia from what he calls an 'unprecedented assault' on communities, jobs, and civil rights by the Trump administration.

Miyares, Virginia’s first Hispanic American elected to statewide office, has aligned himself with Trump’s agenda, a move that’s drawn sharp criticism from Democrats. Jones didn’t mince words, accusing Miyares of prioritizing politics over principle by refusing to challenge Trump’s policies in court, unlike other Democratic attorneys general nationwide. Jones campaigned on protecting civil rights, ensuring public safety, preserving abortion access, and holding corporations accountable to lower costs for Virginians.

Jones’ primary rival, Shannon Taylor, Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney, also leaned into anti-Trump sentiment, spotlighting public safety and economic growth. Her campaign ads took jabs at Trump and Elon Musk, framing the election as a battle against their influence. Despite her efforts, Jones’ message resonated more with primary voters.

Virginia’s elections are a political crystal ball, offering clues about the national mood ahead of the 2026 midterms. With Trump’s shadow looming large, the race is seen as a referendum on his second term. Republicans swept Virginia’s top offices in 2021, but history suggests the party controlling the White House often stumbles in Virginia’s gubernatorial races. This November, all eyes will be on whether Democrats can flip the attorney general’s seat in a state Trump lost by six points last year.