Democratic Representative Gerry Connolly of Virginia has sadly passed away at the age of 75 following a courageous fight against esophageal cancer. His family announced the news on Wednesday, expressing their profound grief in a heartfelt statement shared on Connolly's X account. "It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family," the statement read.
Connolly served as the top Democrat on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform until late last month, when he decided to step down due to the return of his cancer. Despite his diagnosis, he was elected to this leadership role in December, overcoming a challenge from progressive Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), a testament to his resilience and dedication to public service.
First elected to Congress in 2008, Connolly was particularly known for his passionate advocacy on behalf of the thousands of federal employees residing in his Northern Virginia district. His gregarious nature enabled him to form strong relationships across party lines during his more than 15 years in Congress.
On Wednesday morning, the House Rules Committee paused its contentious meeting regarding President Donald Trump's significant tax bill to hold a moment of silence in honor of Connolly. Committee Chair Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) encouraged members to take a moment to reflect and pray for Connolly's family, emphasizing the impact he had on those around him.
In November, Connolly revealed his diagnosis of throat cancer, which came as a shock given that he experienced almost no symptoms. He committed to undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy and vowed to confront the disease with his characteristic Irish fight and humor.
Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) expressed his heartbreak over Connolly's passing, stating, "Gerry was a fighter. His sharp mind, boundless energy, and deep commitment to the people of Northern Virginia made him a force to be reckoned with, whether on the Fairfax Board of Supervisors or in Congress." Warner continued to commend Connolly's tenacity and purpose, particularly in his final battle with cancer, which he faced with remarkable courage, grace, and quiet dignity.
In their statement, Connolly's family reflected on his life, saying, "Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better." They highlighted his dedication to advocating for the disadvantaged and voiceless, as well as his steadfast commitment to standing up for what is right and just. Connolly was not only a skilled statesman on the international stage but also an accomplished legislator in Congress, a visionary executive on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and a fierce defender of democracy, an environmental champion, and a mentor to many.
