Attorney General Jason Miyares pushed back against accusations from Democratic challenger Jay Jones that he is loyal to former President Donald Trump during their Thursday night debate at the University of Richmond. Miyares cited his record of suing both Republican and Democratic administrations as evidence of his independence.
When asked whether his loyalty to Trump has “come at the expense of Virginia’s interest,” Miyares replied, “I call balls and strikes. The reality? I have sued both administrations, the Trump administration and the Biden administration. I have sued to protect our veterans and their GI Benefits, I have always put Virginians first.”
Jones tried to cast doubt on Miyares’ claim, saying, “Well he is talking a lot about prosecuting cases but he can’t seem to prosecute a case against Donald Trump to save his life. He mentioned one and that is respectable.” (RELATED: Republican Attorney General Helped Shut Down Brothel That Democratic Prosecutor Tolerated)
In fact, Miyares’ record includes multiple lawsuits against federal agencies, including one earlier this year against the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The suit, joined by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, and several individual veterans, alleges the VA unlawfully withheld full educational benefits promised under the Serviceman’s Readjustment Act of 1944, known as the G.I. Bill.
“Veterans who qualified for benefits should receive their full benefits – full stop,” Miyares said in a statement. His office argues the VA’s actions could place additional strain on Virginia’s veterans’ education programs.
The lawsuit remains ongoing as Miyares continues to frame his leadership as guided by Virginia’s interests—not partisan loyalty. (RELATED: Spanberger Refuses to Drop Endorsement of Jay Jones After Texts Fantasizing About Shooting GOP Lawmaker)