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8h ago

Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly Dies at 75 After Cancer Battle

The veteran lawmaker, known for his advocacy for federal workers and local infrastructure, passed away surrounded by family, leaving a legacy of four decades in public service.

Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., questions witnesses during a House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform hearing in Washington on March 5.
FILE PHOTO: Democratic U.S. Rep. Gerald (Gerry) Connolly of Virginia, running for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2022 U.S. midterm elections, speaks during a House Committee on Oversight and Reform hearing on gun violence on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S. June 8, 2022. Andrew Harnik/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
Rep. Gerry Connolly speaks at a press conference outside the U.S. Agency for International Development on Feb. 3. Photo: Jason C. Andrew/Bloomberg via Getty Images
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Overview

  • Gerry Connolly, a nine-term Democratic representative for Virginia's 11th District, died peacefully at home following a battle with esophageal cancer.
  • Connolly announced his diagnosis in November 2024 and stepped down from his role as House Oversight Committee ranking member in April 2025 after the cancer's recurrence.
  • He served Northern Virginia for nearly 40 years, championing projects like the Silver Line Metro extension and advocating for federal workforce reforms in Congress.
  • Tributes poured in from lawmakers across party lines, highlighting his intellect, integrity, and dedication to public service.
  • Connolly's death marks the third loss of a House Democrat this year, creating a vacancy in his district and on the House Oversight Committee.