Miyares Launches Ad Criticizing Jones in Virginia Attorney General Race

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares has released his first television advertisement for the upcoming general election on November 5th. The ad aims to highlight the differences between Miyares and his Democratic opponent, Jay Jones, in what is expected to be a closely contested race.

The advertisement, titled "Soft Jay Jones will not keep us safe," contrasts the two candidates for the state's attorney general position. Miyares' campaign emphasizes that Jones has never served as a prosecutor. The campaign's press secretary stated that the ad aims to differentiate between a candidate they portray as "soft" and "radical" and Miyares, who they claim has been working to protect families.

Jay Jones, according to his website, holds a law degree from the University of Virginia and previously served as an assistant attorney general in the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia, focusing on consumer protection. His website also highlights his legal work, including his advocacy for voting rights and reproductive healthcare access. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2018 to 2021, resigning before the end of his second term.

The Miyares ad features Jones discussing his campaign's focus on "justice reform." The ad then presents two policy issues to illustrate what the Miyares campaign views as contradictions in Jones' message regarding public safety. One issue mentioned is a bill Jones co-sponsored in 2020 that would have allowed criminals to potentially shorten their sentences. The ad also points out Jones' vote against a bill in 2019 that would have imposed mandatory minimum sentences for assault and battery against family members.

The ad is part of a significant financial investment by the Miyares campaign. The campaign has spent over $160,000 on political advertisements.

Jones released his third campaign ad on June 3rd, in which he stated his commitment to protecting abortion rights and fighting against attacks on rights and workers.

A recent poll indicates that a significant portion of independent voters remain undecided in the races for governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general, suggesting that the election outcomes are still very much in play.