David Owen, Delegate for Virginia’s 57th House District, has called on his political opponent, May Nivar, to join him in urging Jay Jones to withdraw from the Attorney General’s race. This request follows reports of violent text messages Jones allegedly sent regarding former Virginia House Speaker Todd Gilbert. Owen made this statement on his official X account.
“That’s why I am calling on my opponent, May Nivar, to join me in demanding Jay Jones drop out of the Attorney General’s race,” said Owen, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates (District 57).
According to CBS News, Jay Jones, a candidate for Virginia Attorney General, is under bipartisan scrutiny after text messages emerged in which he reportedly fantasized about shooting House Speaker Todd Gilbert and mentioned harm to his family. Leaders from both parties have condemned these messages as “violent” and “unacceptable,” pressing Jones to exit the race.
Axios highlights that the U.S. Capitol Police investigated 8,008 threats against members of Congress in 2023—nearly four times the number reported in 2017. Experts attribute this increase to increasingly hostile political rhetoric and online harassment, cautioning that such violent language poses risks to elected officials nationwide.
A September 2025 survey by the Wason Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University indicates that 71% of Virginia voters are concerned about the tone of state politics, with 59% believing that rising hostility threatens public safety. The survey reveals widespread support for leaders who “set a civil example” and denounce violence in campaigns and public discourse.
Owen is a Republican member of the Virginia House of Delegates representing the 57th District. A small-business owner from Henrico County, he serves on committees focused on education and commerce. His legislative priorities include lowering taxes, strengthening schools, and promoting integrity and civility in Virginia politics.
