Democratic Virginia Senator Tim Kaine is condemning Republican presidential candidates for using "hateful rhetoric" in the race for the White House.
Kaine was speaking to a group of Hispanic and African-American publishers at the National Press Club when he made comments referring to Donald Trump's controversial statements on Thursday.
"From a declaration that we shouldn't allow Muslims into the United States, to horrible stereotypes trafficked about many ethnic groups in this country," Kaine said. "This hateful rhetoric which I condemn and abhor - it is the death spasm of a feeling people have about losing control."
News4's Tom Sherwood reports Kaine's comments are getting national attention as he might be a vice presidential candidate with Hillary Clinton.
But Kaine declined to say if he would run for vice president.
"Well, I'm a happy senator and I like my job and I'm not looking for another one, but, look, my best use is helping Secretary Clinton - especially win Virginia."
Kaine said Virginia is among a handful of critical states for Democrats to win in November.