Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) has died at the age of 75.
According to Red State, Connolly has served in Congress since 2009, and was reelected in November 2024.
Shortly before his reelection, Connolly disclosed that he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and would be undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy. He then stepped back from his role in late April due to cancer returning and announced he would not be seeking reelection in 2026.
Connolly’s family released a statement following his death.
“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,” his family announced in a statement.
“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,” the family added.
