Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) died this morning, his family announced in a press release. He was 75 years old.
His family released the following statement announcing his passing:
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.
But more important than his accomplishments in elected office, Gerry lived by the ethos of ‘bloom where you are planted. From the Silver Line to the Oakton Library, Mosaic District to the Cross County Trail and beyond, his legacy now colors our region.
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. We thank you for your love of Gerry, and know he loved you all so much.
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— Rep. Gerry Connolly (@GerryConnolly) May 21, 2025
As Fox News reported , Connolly had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer more than six months ago. He had previously served as the top Democrat on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform until last month, when he said he would step down because his cancer had returned, as CNBC notes.
He beat out Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) for the leadership position back in December, despite being diagnosed with cancer.
Connolly was first elected to Congress in 2008 as the representative for Virginia’s 11th congressional district, which comprises most of Fairfax County and Fairfax City.
He regularly advocated for a large federal government, in no small part due to the district’s massive federal worker population.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
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