In the heated Virginia Attorney General race, Jay Jones seems to be wearing the crown in the controversy department, and his opponent, Jason Miyares, is doubling down on making sure everyone knows it. Political theater rarely has such clear-cut characters, where one is being handed a “Get Out of Jail Free” card by his critics—literally and figuratively—to symbolize his past reckless driving conviction. Meanwhile, Jones is running a campaign that claims he’s tough on crime, despite his own antics and history suggesting otherwise.

Miyares is having none of it. Throughout the race, he’s been reminding voters, particularly those with memories as long as a goldfish, about Jones’ questionable policies during his time in the General Assembly. Miyares points out that Jones supported early release for violent offenders, stood by no cash bail initiatives like an anchor tied to a sinking ship, and voted to end mandatory reporting of sexual assaults in schools. If his voting record were food, it would be a buffet of bad decisions.

Now, nobody’s saying that politics needs to be bland—spicy is fine as long as it’s responsible. But when Jones is simultaneously embroiled in a criminal investigation over whether he misled a judge about his 160 mph joy ride, all while campaigning to be the top prosecutor, voters might wonder if they’re watching a slapstick comedy play out in real-time. Miyares, on the other hand, has steadfastly maintained his reputation by aligning with law enforcement and focusing on lowering crime statistics, a strategy that has found favor with even some Democrats feeling disillusioned by the chaotic capers of Jones.

Meanwhile, former President Barack Obama, known for his eloquent speeches and long strides, has thrown his weight behind Jones. This move might suggest that some folks are willing to turn a blind eye to clear discrepancies just for an ideological win. It’s like endorsing the town dogcatcher because you really want change, even if said dogcatcher has a habit of leaving the pound gates wide open.

Voters in Virginia are at an important junction, being asked to choose between a candidate with a dubious personal and professional track record, and Miyares, who promises stability and a safe pair of hands to lead the attorney general office. One can only hope that come election day, the decision is not swayed by shortsighted endorsements or misguided allegiances, but rather by sober reflection on who will best serve the public’s interest without adding more fodder to late-night news comedy.