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Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia died Wednesday morning at age 75 after a months-long battle of esophageal cancer, his family announced.
Connolly, who had represented Virginia’s 11th District since 2008, announced his cancer diagnosis in November 2024. Last month, he confirmed the cancer had returned and said he would not seek reelection or continue his leadership post on the House Oversight Committee.
A figure in Northern Virginia politics for nearly three decades, Connolly began his public service as a Fairfax County supervisor in 1995. In Congress, he served nine terms and was best known for his role as ranking member of the House Oversight Committee.
“The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress,” Connolly said at the time. “You all have been a joy to serve.”
Connolly’s death comes amid a heated legislative battle over President Donald Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping package of tax cuts and pro-family reforms. His passing leaves House Democrats with one less vote during critical negotiations.
A self-identified Catholic, Connolly narrowly held his seat in 2010, defeating Catholic Republican Keith Fimian by just 981 votes. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee intervened late in the race with ads targeting Fimian’s Catholic and pro-life stances – a move that drew backlash from Catholic leaders at the time.
Soon after Connolly’s death was announced, lawmakers from both parties paid tribute to the congressman.
“I am heartbroken by the passing of my friend and colleague, Congressman Gerry Connolly. Gerry was a devoted public servant who spent over three decades serving the people of Virginia and our nation with unmatched dedication and purpose,” said Ohio Republican Rep. Mike Turner.
Sen. Mark Warner, a fellow Virginia Democrat, called Connolly “a fighter,” praising his “sharp mind, boundless energy, and deep commitment” to Northern Virginians.
Connolly’s family said in a statement: “We were fortunate to share Gerry with Northern Virginia for nearly 40 years because that was his joy, his purpose, and his passion. His absence will leave a hole in our hearts, but we are proud that his life’s work will endure for future generations.”
