Jay Jones, a Democratic candidate for Virginia attorney general, is projected to defeat incumbent Republican Jason Miyares in a closely watched statewide race. Decision Desk HQ announced the outcome at 8:26 p.m. ET, with NBC News reporting Jones leading 51.4% to 48.2% as 77% of votes were counted.

Jones’ victory comes despite multiple controversies that dominated the final weeks of the campaign. The race was marred by resurfaced texts from 2022 in which Jones made violent references about then-state House Speaker Todd Gilbert (R). In one message, Jones wrote to Del. Carrie Coyner (R): “Three people, two bullets… Gilbert gets two bullets to the head.” He later apologized for the remarks, but Republicans, including President Trump, used the scandal to attack him throughout the campaign.

Jones also faced scrutiny over a 2021 reckless driving conviction after being caught speeding at 116 mph on Interstate 64 in New Kent, Virginia. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin criticized the conviction, stating, “The job of attorney general is too important to leave to someone who would recklessly break the law and endanger the lives of others.”

Additional allegations included claims that Jones called for police officers to be killed to prevent them from using force. The Fraternal Order of Police of Virginia responded by urging him to withdraw from the race. A viral video also emerged showing Jones appearing to kick a dog on Election Day, though no official investigation into the incident has been reported.

Despite these controversies, Democrats secured wins in three key statewide races, including the gubernatorial contest. Exit polls highlighted a significant voter bloc with unfavorable views of both major parties, with 72% of such voters supporting Jones over Republican opponent Winsome Earle-Sears.