Rep. Gerry Connolly Dies Aged 75

U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) has died, the congressman's family said in a statement.

He was 75 and had served in Congress since 2009, representing northern Virginia, including Fairfax County.

The Connolly family described him as "our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant".

They said he 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," the family statement said. "He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just."

Esophageal Cancer Diagnosis

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

Concerns about Connolly's health were a factor late last year as he ran for the top-ranking position on Oversight, one of the most prominent committees in Congress.

He stepped down from the House Oversight Committee in April and said he would not seek reelection in 2026.

Connolly said that after "grueling treatments," he learned that the cancer has returned.

The Democrat said at the time that "the sun is setting on my time in public service".

Before serving in Congress, Connolly worked in the 1980s as a staffer for the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

He became a fixture in northern Virginia politics as a Fairfax County board supervisor in 1995. He was elected the board's chairman in 2003.

During his time on the county board, Connolly played a key role securing the funds needed to develop the region's silver metro line, which now extends to Dulles International Airport.

Tributes to Gerry Connolly

Jim Acosta, the journalist and former chief White House correspondent for CNN, paid tribute to Connolly in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

"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," Acosta wrote. "RIP."

Representative Mike Turner (R-OH) said he was "heartbroken by the passing of my friend and colleague" in a post on X.

"Over the years, Gerry and I developed a strong friendship through our service together as members of the U.S. delegation to [NATO's Parliamentary Assembly]," Turner wrote.

"Gerry's legacy is one of intellect, integrity, and relentless dedication to the people of Virginia's 11th District and to our allies abroad. His absence will be deeply felt, both in Congress and on the international stage.

"My thoughts and prayers are with his family, staff, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him."

This article includes reporting by The Associated Press.