Livestream Captures Moment Reps Hear About Gerry Connolly's Death

Members of the House Rules Committee were left visibly shocked after learning about the death of Representative Gerry Connolly during a meeting on Wednesday.

The Context

Connolly, the most senior Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, died on Wednesday morning at the age of 75, according to his family.

In a statement provided to Newsweek by his Washington D.C. office they said: "Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family."

What To Know

The House Rules Committee had been meeting to discuss a Trump endorsed tax bill, officially known as the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act', which passed the Budget Committee on Sunday in a 17-16 vote.

News of Connolly's death broke during the meeting, where one person could be heard saying "oh no" on a livestream broadcast by The Associated Press.

Representative Mary Scanlon, who had been speaking, then yielded to Republican committee chair Virginia Foxx who briefly paused proceedings so members could "say a prayer" for Connolly's family.

Howard Mortman, C-SPAN's communications director, shared a one minute 13 second clip of this moment on X.

Representative Neguse, a Colorado Democrat, later thanked Foxx for facilitating the pause to "remember and honor our colleague whom I know we all treasured and he was a giant among giants in this institution."

In 2024 Connolly announced he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and would undergo chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

In late April Connolly said that despite the "grueling treatments" his cancer had returned and announce he would step down from the House Oversight Committee, and not seek re-election in 2026.

He added: "With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we've accomplished together over 30 years."

What People Are Saying

In a statement provided to Newsweek Connolly's family said: "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

"Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better. He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just. He was a skilled statesman on the international stage, an accomplished legislator in Congress, a visionary executive on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, a fierce defender of democracy, an environmental champion, and a mentor to so many."

On X Professor Larry Sabato, an American politics expert, shared the statement from Connolly's family adding: "So sad to read this. Gerry was a terrific public servant who achieved much. No one in Congress worked harder or cared more. Rest in peace, Gerry. Sincere condolences to his family—including two Hoos."

Independent journalist Jim Acosta, formally of CNN, said: "Very sad news. Congressman Connolly was a true fighter for the district where I grew up in Fairfax County and fought especially hard for the federal workers being harmed by DOGE. RIP."

What Happens Next

Details about Connolly's funeral have not yet been announced. A vacancy will now be declared for Connolly's seat representing Virginia's 11^th congressional district leading to a special election.