Geary Higgins, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, has expressed concern over remarks made by Democratic attorney general candidate Jay Jones. Higgins said that Jones’ comments “normalize political violence” and urged the public to reject such rhetoric. His statement was made on the social media platform X.
“What Jay Jones said is not normal and we should not move on,” said Geary Michael Higgins, Virginia State Representative for 30th District. “Normal people don’t fantasize about shooting their political opponents. Normal people don’t want dead cops. Normal people don’t want children to die for their policy goals.”
In October 2025, private texts from Jay Jones dating back to 2022 resurfaced, revealing violent fantasies about shooting then-House Speaker Todd Gilbert and wishing harm upon his children. This revelation led Republicans to demand Jones’ resignation, while Democrats condemned the rhetoric as Jones issued an apology. The incident became a significant issue in Virginia’s statewide races, prompting statements from leaders across both parties. According to the Virginia Mercury, Coyner confirmed the authenticity of the texts, and Jones referred to them as a “grave mistake.”
According to Princeton’s Bridging Divides Initiative’s Q1-2025 survey, threats and harassment toward U.S. local officials remained elevated in early 2025. Nearly half reported experiencing some hostility, one in three expressed concern about future hostility, and about two-thirds indicated it reduced their willingness to engage in public activities. This climate followed high-profile attacks and strained civic participation.
National polling indicates a rising openness to political violence. An NPR/PBS News/Marist survey conducted in October 2025 found that approximately 30% of respondents believe it may be necessary to “get the country back on track,” marking an increase from earlier levels in the decade. This trend reflects growing polarization and concerns about democratic stability.
Higgins is a Republican representative for Virginia’s House District 30 since January 2024 and previously served on the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors and School Board. His campaign focuses on public safety, school resource officers, parents’ rights, and supports tougher school safety measures like panic alarms.
The context for Higgins includes his representation of House District 30, where he won the 2023 general election with 53.1% of the vote against Democrat John C. McAuliff’s 46.7%. He is also on the ballot for the upcoming 2025 election. These results highlight a competitive northern Virginia seat within closely watched statewide races.
