Brace yourself for a political firestorm that’s hotter than a Virginia summer.

Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson have thrown down the gauntlet, demanding that Democratic Virginia attorney general candidate Jay Jones abandon his campaign after shocking private text messages surfaced. These aren’t just idle words—they’ve sparked a bipartisan uproar, Breitbart reported.

At the heart of this controversy are leaked texts from Jones to Republican Delegate Carrie Coyner, where he mused about violent hypotheticals involving then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert and made chilling references to Gilbert’s family suffering.

Let’s rewind to how this unfolded. Jones, who stepped down from the Virginia House of Delegates in 2022, sent messages that included a hypothetical about shooting Gilbert, even stating he’d choose Gilbert over dictators if given just two bullets. It’s the kind of rhetoric that stops you cold.

Disturbing Texts Spark Outrage Among Leaders

But wait, it gets worse. Jones didn’t stop at hypotheticals—he extended the conversation to imagine Gilbert’s children dying in their mother’s arms and even speculated about desecrating Republican graves. If that’s not a bridge too far, what is?

Coyner, the recipient of these messages, didn’t hesitate to call them out, confirming their authenticity to the Washington Post and labeling them “disqualifying.” She’s right—public office demands trust, not fantasies of violence. Turns out, actions, or in this case words, have consequences.

The story broke through National Review, and the fallout was immediate. Republican heavyweights, including Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the Republican Attorneys General Association, joined Vance and Johnson in urging Jones to step aside. Even Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, currently in her own political race, added her voice to the chorus.

Republican Calls for Withdrawal Intensify

Vance didn’t mince words, stating, “The Democrat candidate for AG in Virginia has been fantasizing about murdering his political opponents.” That’s a gut punch of a statement, and it’s hard to argue with the sentiment when the texts are this explicit. The hypocrisy of some who ignore such remarks while nitpicking lesser offenses is glaring.

House Speaker Johnson echoed the sentiment, declaring, “These text messages are plainly disqualifying for anyone who aspires to public office.” He’s spot on—there’s no room in politics for wishing harm on opponents, let alone their families. This isn’t just a slip; it’s a moral failing.

Johnson also noted there’s “no conceivable justification” for such violent rhetoric. If we’re serious about civility in politics, this is where the line must be drawn. Anything less is just pandering to a dangerous precedent.

Jones Apologizes, but Is It Enough?

Jones, for his part, has tried to backpedal, admitting the words make him “sick” to his stomach. In an interview with ABC 8News, he expressed deep regret and a wish to retract the messages. But apologies can’t erase the damage done.

While it’s commendable that Jones takes responsibility, the question remains—can voters trust someone who even entertained such thoughts? Public office isn’t a therapy session; it’s a position of immense power and accountability.

Republicans aren’t letting this slide, and they’ve pointed fingers at other Democrats, like Rep. Abigail Spanberger, for not joining the call for Jones to withdraw. Silence from some quarters speaks volumes, especially when the stakes are this high. It’s a moment for principle over party.

Bipartisan Condemnation Highlights Serious Concerns

This isn’t just a Republican pile-on; the condemnation cuts across party lines to some extent, showing how far Jones crossed the boundary. When even bipartisan voices agree on the severity, it’s a sign this isn’t mere political gamesmanship. It’s about basic decency.

The texts, including Jones’ musings about attending funerals just to disrespect the deceased, paint a picture of deep-seated animosity that’s incompatible with leadership. Virginia deserves an attorney general focused on justice, not personal vendettas. Let’s hope this serves as a wake-up call.

As this story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Jones’ candidacy hangs by a thread, and the pressure to step aside isn’t likely to relent. Political discourse is messy enough without adding violent fantasies to the mix. Maybe it’s time for a hard reset—starting with a withdrawal.