Gerry Connolly, a long-serving Democratic representative from Northern Virginia, has passed away at the age of 75 following a battle with esophageal cancer. His death was announced by his family through a statement from his congressional office. Connolly, known for his advocacy of the federal workforce, had previously revealed in November 2024 that he was being treated for cancer. His passing marks the end of a career dedicated to public service, spanning nearly four decades in Congress.
Connolly had previously announced his intention to step down from his role as the ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, citing the return of his cancer. In an email to his constituents, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, stating, “You all have been a joy to serve.”
Before his illness, Connolly played a pivotal role in defending the federal workforce against the attacks from the Trump administration, particularly emphasizing the detrimental impact of proposed budget cuts on essential services. His commitment to public service was deeply rooted in his background as a former chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, where he represented a district with a significant number of government workers.
Throughout his career, Connolly maintained a strong stance in favor of bipartisan cooperation, earning respect from colleagues across the aisle. Despite the divisive political climate, he advocated for civility in Congress, often reminding newly elected lawmakers of the importance of respectful discourse. His legacy will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to the public good and his efforts to safeguard the interests of government workers, leaving a lasting impact on the communities he served.