The race for Virginia Attorney General is heating up as Democrats Jay Jones and Shannon Taylor vie for their party’s nomination. With the primary election just around the corner on June 17, 2025, both candidates are making their case to voters, emphasizing their opposition to Republican incumbent Jason Miyares and former President Donald Trump’s policies. This article delves into the backgrounds, platforms, and key endorsements of Jones and Taylor as they battle for the chance to represent the Democratic Party in the November general election.
Jay Jones: The Former Delegate
Jay Jones, a former delegate and attorney from Norfolk, brings a legislative background to the race. He has served as an assistant attorney general for Washington, D.C., focusing on consumer protection. Jones emphasizes his experience taking on big banks and tech companies, advocating for stronger consumer safeguards. He also pledges to join other Democratic attorneys general in suing the Trump administration to protect federal workers in Virginia.
Jones has received key endorsements from prominent figures such as former Governors Ralph Northam and Terry McAuliffe, as well as New Jersey Senator Cory Booker. His focus on protecting federal workers and combating corporate abuse resonates with many Democratic voters seeking a progressive voice in the Attorney General’s office.
Shannon Taylor: The Seasoned Prosecutor
Shannon Taylor, the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney, brings nearly 30 years of prosecutorial experience to the table. Having won four contested elections against Republicans in Henrico County, Taylor highlights her proven leadership and electability. She stresses the need for an Attorney General who will challenge executive orders that impact federal employees, veterans, and seniors in Virginia.
Taylor’s endorsements include support from former Attorneys General Mark Herring and Mary Sue Terry, former State House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, and Emily’s List. Her emphasis on proven leadership and her track record as a prosecutor appeal to voters seeking a pragmatic and experienced candidate.
Standing Against Trump’s Policies
Both Jones and Taylor have made it clear that a central component of their campaigns is opposition to former President Donald Trump’s policies. They argue that current Attorney General Jason Miyares has been too complacent in challenging these policies, which they say have harmed Virginians. Jones has explicitly stated that he will never bend to the president’s knee and will fight to protect federal workers who have lost their jobs.
Taylor agrees that Virginia needs an Attorney General willing to take on Trump and his administration, stating that Miyares is not interested in protecting Virginians. By not challenging executive orders, she believes that federal employees, veterans, and seniors are being negatively impacted. Both candidates are committed to using the Attorney General’s office to defend the rights and interests of Virginians against what they see as harmful federal policies.
Strengthening the Civil Rights Division
Another key area of focus for both candidates is strengthening the civil rights division within the Attorney General’s office. They argue that this division has been hollowed out and needs to be revitalized to protect against discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for all Virginians. Taylor references attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion, emphasizing that discrimination does not simply disappear and that it is crucial to ensure fair and equal opportunities for everyone in the Commonwealth.
Jones expands on this, stating that the civil rights division can use the Human Rights Act not just as a shield to protect people but as a sword to go after bad actors. He wants to ensure that every community across Virginia, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation, is protected. Both candidates are committed to making civil rights a priority in the Attorney General’s office.
Key Endorsements
Both Jay Jones and Shannon Taylor have garnered significant endorsements from various organizations and individuals. Jones is backed by the AFGE, former Governors Ralph Northam and Terry McAuliffe, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, and the Virginia Machinists Council. These endorsements highlight his appeal to labor unions, progressive activists, and established Democratic leaders.
Taylor’s endorsements include support from former Attorneys General Mark Herring and Mary Sue Terry, former State House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn, and Emily’s List. These endorsements showcase her strong connections within the legal community and her appeal to women’s advocacy groups. The backing of former Attorneys General also signals confidence in her ability to effectively lead the office.
The Road Ahead
As the Democratic primary approaches, Jay Jones and Shannon Taylor are making their final push to convince voters that they are the best choice to take on incumbent Republican Jason Miyares in the general election. Both candidates offer compelling visions for the Attorney General’s office, emphasizing their opposition to Trump’s policies, their commitment to strengthening civil rights, and their unique backgrounds and experiences.
The winner of the June 17, 2025, Democratic primary will face a tough challenge in the November 4, 2025, general election. With the political landscape constantly shifting, the race for Virginia Attorney General promises to be one of the most closely watched contests in the state. Voters will need to carefully consider the qualifications and platforms of each candidate to determine who is best suited to lead the Commonwealth’s legal affairs.
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