And on Tuesday, he extended the message of moral clarity to the fallout of disturbing text messages sent by a fellow Democrat running for Virginia attorney general that were released on Oct. 3, two weeks after voters began casting ballots for the Nov. 4 general election.
“Governor Shapiro has been loud and clear that leaders need to speak and act with moral clarity and stand up against the hatred, the dangerous rhetoric, and the political violence that is gripping our country,” said Manuel Bonder, the governor’s campaign spokesman, in a statement to The Center Square.
In 2022, former state House Del. Jay Jones sent texts to another legislator criticizing Republican House Speaker Todd Gilbert, accusing him of raising “little fascists” that he hoped would die in his wife’s arms from gunshot wounds to change his mind on firearm policy.
In another message, he joked that if given two bullets to kill Gilbert alongside former dictators Adolf Hitler and Pol Pot, he’d shoot the speaker twice.
So far, prominent Democratic leaders in the state have condemned the texts, though none have told him to withdraw from the election – much to the alarm of Republican critics.
Rally Virginia, a conservative grassroots group, on Tuesday called on Jones “to do the right thing and drop out,” although even if he does, state law makes it clear that his name will remain on the ballot.
The group, which has endorsed incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares, said his messages were “unacceptable from a public official.”
It also pointed to Jones’ past controversies, including a 2022 reckless driving charge and a probation deal that required 500 hours of community service with his political action committee, adding, “Jay knows as well as we do that this was not legitimate service, and he believes the normal rules don’t apply to him.”
While Shapiro didn’t speak about Jones’s future in the race, his spokesman told The Center Square that Jones’ “rhetoric is reprehensible and inexcusable – period.”
“Violence, and calls for it, are never acceptable in our political process no matter who they are coming from or who they are targeting,” Bonder said.
Shirleen Guerra contributed to this report.
Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.