Jones defeated Republican John Thomas in the race to replace Ghazala Hashmi, who was elected as Virginia’s lieutenant governor in November, The Hill reported.
Democrats were expected to carry the district, which former Vice President Kamala Harris won in 2024 by 30 points. But Jones’s win is notable because the party has a slim 21-19 majority in the chamber and needs every vote it can get as it looks to move forward with constitutional amendments on redistricting, reproductive rights and other major issues.
Tuesday’s victory will also further energize Democrats after a string of recent election wins and over performances, including in Virginia, where they flipped the governor’s mansion.
“Dr. Jones’ victory tonight is yet another proof point that Democrats — who remain focused on lowering costs for families — have the momentum across the country,” Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin said in a statement. “In election after election, voters are rejecting Donald Trump and his unaffordable, out-of-touch agenda and are instead putting their faith in Democrats who will fight for working families instead of billionaires.”