Political violence is undoubtedly surging, and Virginia seems to be experiencing a bizarre uptick in threats against Republicans.

According to JustTheNews, State Delegate Kim Taylor (R-Petersburg) is the latest Republican to deal with what was described as a "credible" threat on her life, prompting increasing security concerns for political officials at every level.

The threat on Taylor's life came via text message last week, according to reports. The message was disturbing and serious enough to prompt swift action from local law enforcement officials.

The investigation was so effective and quick that a suspect was arrested later that night.

What's going on?

According to a report by the Dinwiddie County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect was later identified as Michael Ray Strawmyer, 33, of DeWitt, Virginia.

JustTheNews noted:

According to reports, Strawmyer thought Taylor was "ruining the country" and made reference to her political party and opponents in the text message.

Luckily, the Republican delegate is doing fine in the wake of receiving the threat, telling reporters she feels "safe" and is "doing well."

"I’m safe and doing well," Taylor said late Thursday. "Grateful for law enforcement’s swift action."

Taylor's campaign spokesperson, Jacklyn Washington, added that "no threat will distract her from the work she was elected to do."

"Earlier today, delegate Kim Taylor received a politically motivated death threat by text message to her campaign. Our campaign takes every threat seriously and this was no exception,"

Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears commented on the situation, expressing her thanks to law enforcement and noting that there's no tolerance in her state for political violence.

"Political violence is never the answer. Thank you to our law enforcement officers for your quick action and support for Kim Taylor," the Lt. Gov. said.

Social media reacts

There have been several death threats in recent weeks against Republicans in the state of Virginia. Many blame the violent rhetoric on the extreme left for sparking the threats.

Abigail Spanberger wants rage to fuel her supporters. That has turned into threats against Delegate Kim Taylor and Delegate Geary Higgins. #stopthehate #electionsmatter #virginia pic.twitter.com/NBFQKEB2sm

— Phillip Scott (@PhilScottva) September 29, 2025

Virginia House Delegate Geary Higgins (R) also received a credible death threat in late September, with the person behind it threatening to murder him and his children.