Jay Jones

Today, I was sworn in as the 49th Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Virginia, wearing my late fathers cuff links, pinned on me by my mother.

On what Gerry Connolly called the holiest day of the year, Democrats showed up in Annandale to carry his legacy forward. Thank you to Smitty and Caitlin Connolly for your stewardship of that legacy. Proud to speak in support of James Walkinshaw, a star in Congress who is proudly carrying on Gerry’s work and delivering for Northern Virginia.

As Attorney General, I answer to the Constitution and the people of Virginia. I will use every lawful tool available to challenge federal overreach, defend civil liberties, protect consumers and small businesses from economic harm, and ensure that Virginians do not suffer at the hand of the President’s reckless abuse of power. I will work alongside Governor Spanberger to lower costs, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard the freedom and security every Virginia family deserves.

Donald Trump stood before the country tonight and doubled down on dangerous rhetoric, division, and power grabs, offering more chaos at a time when families are asking for stability. Here in Williamsburg, where Virginia directed its delegates to call for independence against a dangerous tyrant, Governor Spanberger offered a different vision – one rooted in accountability, liberty, and the courage to stand up to the federal overreach wreaking havoc on our communities.

President Trump defended his relentless efforts to expand his federal power, and the disruption that drives uncertainty. Governor Spanberger focused on what families are actually facing: rising energy costs, grocery bills, and housing costs that make home ownership and even housing stability out of reach for too many Virginians. President Trump portrayed his unchecked use of federal force a strength, when in reality it is a posture that has put Americans at risk and, in several tragic cases, cost lives. Governor Spanberger spoke about keeping communities safe, safeguarding the rule of law, adhering to constitutional limits, and protecting rather than targeting communities.

I am saddened by the passing of Del. Barry Knight, a former colleague, champion for Hampton Roads, and a trusted partner in service to the Commonwealth. My prayers are with his wife, Paula, and their sons Hunter, Kyle, and Forrest during this difficult time.

The passing of the Rev. Jesse Jackson closes a towering chapter in the struggle for justice. From standing with Dr. King to his historic runs for president, he opened pathways in rooms never built for people who look like me. Virginians, and all Americans, are better because of his courage and conviction.

Happy Valentine’s Day to the love of my life, Mavis. I’m grateful for every new chapter and adventure we take on together, and there’s nothing better than raising Charles and Zachary by your side. I’m the luckiest man in the world to walk through this life with you.

The closing of the Richmond Free Press is a loss for our Commonwealth. A pillar of Virginia’s Black community, it told our stories and demanded justice. Growing up, my grandma Corrine had my dad bring copies home to Norfolk from Richmond as those pages carried our voice and our history.

Mavis and I join Mathews Co. and our fellow Virginians in mourning the tragic passing of Commonwealth’s Attorney Marie Walls. She devoted her career to the administration of justice, served her community with integrity, and was widely revered by her colleagues and constituents.

My father, Jerrauld Jones, didn’t inherit power. He confronted it. From integrating Virginia schools to decades of civil rights advocacy, he understood that progress is not permanent and justice is never self-executing. This is legacy and his charge to us. paw.princeton.edu/article/time-a…

Good meeting with @vasenatedems and @vahousedems to discuss keeping Virginians safe, driving down costs, and protecting our fundamental rights. We are charting a new course for the Commonwealth of Virginia together.

It is #MLKDay and it is NOT an off day for #RolandMartinUnfiltered. We are covering MLK events nationwide. The first Black attorney general of Virginia @jonesjay is on the show. We’ll also he joined by @RepJeffries. Watch at youtube.com/live/VoV9oUl6s… and the @blkstarnetwork app!

Equality. Opportunity. Justice. The words above the Barbara Johns Building, which houses Virginia’s Office of the Attorney General, are no coincidence. On MLK Day, they remind me of Dr. King’s charge: justice is the goal, and it takes people willing to do the work to get there.

Congratulations to newly sworn-in Attorney General of the Commonwealth, Jay Jones! He stopped by our caucus room today to introduce himself and talk about a Democratic path forward for Virginians. We look forward to working together to deliver for the Commonwealth.

Mavis and I had a great time with our Norfolk neighbors @VAGovernor73 Ralph Northam and First Lady @PamNorthamVA. Their support has meant the world. We will call on them as we go forward in this work knowing they will always be there to protect and advance Virginia’s interests.

It was such a pleasure to spend time with my friend, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton last night. Thank you Jenifer, always, for your counsel and friendship.

Honored to join @GovernorVA to celebrate the history made today at her inaugural ball as we step forward into the important work ahead of us.

Thanks to @UHLocal25 for bringing together university workers from across the Commonwealth. Our crown jewel institutions run well because of the hard work all of you do each day. When workers thrive, our institutions thrive. And when our institutions thrive, Virginia thrives!

On Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, I join Virginians across the Commonwealth in recognizing the work of our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. Thank you for your service and commitment to our communities.