Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Virginia, who recently served as the leading Democrat on the influential House Oversight Committee, died Wednesday morning after battling esophageal cancer, his family announced.
He was 75 years old.
His family said that he died "peacefully" at his home, 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," his family said. "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."
Following the news of his passing, Virginia leaders are reflecting on the legacy the longtime congressman leaves behind. Their statements are as follows:
Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott
“It’s rare to find someone so deeply committed to public service and even rarer to witness the kind of lasting, visible impact Congressman Gerry Connolly made on his community, his Commonwealth, and his country. From transforming Northern Virginia’s transportation infrastructure – making transit more accessible for all – to shaping America’s role on the global stage, Gerry’s legacy reaches from local neighborhoods to the halls of Congress and across the world. He made his way to the top ranks of Congress not only because of his intelligence and unmatched work ethic, but because people trusted him, believed in him, and, above all, loved him.
“It is with profound sadness that I mourn the passing of one of Virginia’s most dedicated public servants. Mellanda and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife and the entire Connolly family."
Sen. Mark Warner (D-Virginia)
I am heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend Gerry Connolly.
“I’ve known Gerry for more than 35 years. To me, he exemplified the very best of public service. Just this past Sunday, I was honored to join his wife Smitty, daughter Caitlin, and the Fairfax community in celebrating his decades of service. While Gerry couldn’t be there in person, his presence was felt throughout the room. He was there in spirit, as he always is when people come together in the name of service and progress.
“Gerry was a fighter. His sharp mind, boundless energy, and deep commitment to the people of Northern Virginia made him a force to be reckoned with, whether on the Fairfax Board of Supervisors or in Congress. He met every challenge with tenacity and purpose, including his final battle with cancer, which he faced with courage, grace, and quiet dignity.
“Today, my thoughts are with Smitty, Caitlin, and all who loved him. We have lost a giant in Virginia public life, and he will be deeply missed.”
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia)
“My friend Gerry Connolly was a one of a kind public servant who never shied away from fighting for Northern Virginia and our country. I will miss his voice on the many issues that were lucky to benefit from his steadfast leadership, from delivering the congressional oversight the American people deserve and protecting NATO, to standing up for the many federal workers who call Virginia home and securing once-in-a-generation transportation infrastructure investments. His legacy will live on through all that he accomplished throughout his decades of public service and the countless people he inspired along the way. My heart is very heavy and I am lifting up Smitty, Caitlin, and all who knew and loved Gerry in prayer during this difficult time.”
Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia)
“It was with immense sadness that I learned of Gerry’s passing. He was a relentless advocate for his constituents and a true public servant who loved America, the Commonwealth of Virginia and his hometown of Fairfax. I will miss our friendship and his infectious energy and humor. This is a true loss for Virginia and our entire nation. I am praying for his family, his staff and his other loved ones at this time.”
Last month, Connolly informed constituents that he planned not to seek reelection next year due to health issues.
He was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in November 2024 and began chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments. He revealed last month that the cancer had returned.
Rep. Connolly represented Virginia’s 11th congressional district. He first won the seat in 2009 and was currently serving his ninth term in the House. In addition to his duties on the House Oversight Committee, he also served on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Earlier this week, Connolly expressed his support for former President Joe Biden earlier this week after Biden announced his cancer diagnosis.
"Deeply saddened to learn of my friend Joe Biden’s diagnosis. My heart is with him and the entire Biden family as he fights this terrible disease," Connolly said.
