Geary Higgins, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, expressed concerns on social media platform X regarding violent threats toward Republicans. He attributed these threats to what he described as dangerous “rage politics,” fueled by divisive rhetoric such as Abigail Spanberger’s comment to “let your rage fuel you.”
“They shot the President,” said Geary M. Higgins. “They killed Charlie Kirk. They threatened to kill Kim Taylor. Is this what ‘letting your rage fuel you’looks like?”
Higgins’ remarks came in response to reports involving Democratic Attorney General nominee Jay Jones. According to these reports, Jones exchanged private messages with a former colleague that included violent fantasies directed at then-Speaker Todd Gilbert and inappropriate comments about the funerals of GOP lawmakers. These revelations have sparked a broader debate over political rhetoric, particularly following Spanberger’s controversial statement. Legal scholar Jonathan Turley has cautioned that such “rage politics” can be contagious and pose real-world risks, framing Higgins’ comments as an appeal for calm in Virginia.
The National Review published screenshots of messages attributed to Jones, where he reportedly said that if given “three people, two bullets — Gilbert, Hitler, and Pol Pot,” he would choose to shoot Speaker Todd Gilbert twice “every time.” The article also referenced texts threatening disrespectful actions at the funerals of GOP colleagues. Delegate Carrie Coyner, who received these messages, described the rhetoric as “disqualifying for anyone who wants to seek public office.” The story highlighted a pattern of dehumanizing political discourse.
Spanberger’s call to “let your rage fuel you” has been frequently cited by critics as indicative of a damaging trend. Coverage has documented instances where this phrase was used during campaign events. Commentary from Turley in The Hill categorized it under “rage politics,” noting its potential for contagion and incitement to violence. This issue has become a focal point for Republicans in Virginia’s statewide races, who are urging leaders to unequivocally condemn threats and de-escalate tensions.
Higgins represents Loudoun County in the Virginia House of Delegates and focuses on issues such as public safety, parental rights, and cost-of-living concerns. As a long-time community leader, he regularly communicates with constituents through X and local media outlets, emphasizing civility and accountability in politics. Higgins has called for bipartisan condemnation of threats against Republicans in Virginia and uses his platform to provide updates on legislative matters relevant to voters ahead of the 2025 statewide contests.
