Gerry Connolly, a longtime Democratic member of Congress from Northern Virginia known for his advocacy of the federal workforce, died Wednesday. He was 75 years old.
The longtime lawmaker’s death was announced by his family via a statement from his congressional office.
“We were fortunate to share Gerry with Northern Virginia for nearly 40 years because that was his joy, his purpose, and his passion,” the family said in its statement. “His absence will leave a hole in our hearts, but we are proud that his life’s work will endure for future generations.”
On April 28, Connolly said he would not seek reelection in 2026 and also said he would step down from his role as the ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, saying his esophageal cancer had returned.
“The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress,” he said in an email to his constituents, adding: “You all have been a joy to serve.”
Connolly had first revealed in November 2024 that he was being treated for cancer. But only weeks later, he won the nod to be the ranking Democrat on the Oversight panel, defeating Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) in a closed door caucus vote.
Read Politico’s full report.
