Virginia Democrats Nominate Jay Jones for AG Primary Against Trump-Backed Jason Miyares
Virginia Democrats have selected Jay Jones as their nominee for attorney general, setting the stage for a November primary against the Republican incumbent Jason Miyares, a prominent Trump ally. This decision has significant implications for the state’s political landscape, as Democrats aim to reverse the Republicans’ 2021 gains that saw the GOP sweep key statewide offices.
Jones, a former state delegate, secured the Democratic primary victory, according to the Associated, which has projected him as the nominee. Miyares, the first Hispanic American to hold a statewide office in Virginia and the first child of an immigrant to become attorney general, has consistently backed Trump’s agenda, contrasting sharply with Democratic attorneys general across the country who have led efforts to challenge Trump’s executive actions in federal courts.
The race is seen as a barometer for national political sentiment, particularly regarding Trump’s second term. With Trump not appearing on the ballot in Virginia’s primary, his policies still heavily influenced the campaign discourse. Both candidates have emphasized their opposition to Trump’s administration, with Jones framing the contest as a fight against an ‘unprecedented assault’ on Virginia’s communities and civil rights. Meanwhile, Taylor, a rival candidate, also sought to capitalize on voter frustrations over Trump’s policies, linking them to various issues including federal budget cuts and corporate accountability.
Public safety, economic development, and protecting civil rights have been central to both campaigns. While Taylor’s platform includes specific promises regarding public safety and abortion rights, Jones has focused more on countering Trump’s impact on the state. The race will be closely watched by national analysts as it serves as an early indicator of how voters might respond to Trump’s continued influence in the midterm elections approaching in 2026.