Rep. Gerry Connolly, a veteran Democrat from Virginia, died Wednesday morning at the age of 75, his family announced.
Known for his staunch defense of federal workers and spirited exchanges during congressional hearings, Connolly’s death follows a public battle with esophageal cancer.
In a statement, Connolly’s family praised his legacy of public service, calling him “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.”
“Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better,” the statement read. “From the Silver Line to the Oakton Library, Mosaic District to the Cross County Trail, his legacy now colors our region.”
Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) pauses the House Rules Committee for a moment of silence for Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) pic.twitter.com/aqvlTbruE0
— Resist Times (@resistupdates) May 21, 2025
Connolly revealed in April that his cancer had returned despite aggressive treatments. He announced that he would not seek re-election in 2026 and had already begun stepping back from his duties on the Oversight Committee, recommending Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-Mass.) as his interim replacement.
His passing marks the third death of a House Democrat in recent months. Reps. Sylvester Turner (D-Texas) and Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) died in March, both following sudden or ongoing health struggles. Connolly’s death now leaves Republicans with a 220–212 advantage in the House.
A Life of Public Service
Before launching his political career, Connolly worked on the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where he advised then-Senator Joe Biden of Delaware. He was first elected to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in 1995 and served for 14 years, including five as board chairman.
In 2008, Connolly successfully ran for Congress after Republican Rep. Tom Davis announced his retirement. He went on to win re-election eight times, representing Virginia’s 11th District, which includes suburban communities in Fairfax County just outside Washington, D.C.
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) is expected to call a special election to fill the now-vacant seat, which is considered a safe Democratic district.
Leadership and Legislative Influence
After the 2024 election cycle, Connolly became ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, beating out Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) in an internal Democratic vote. Backed by senior Democrats including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Connolly prevailed in a 131–84 contest.
During his tenure in Congress, Connolly became known for his commitment to federal workers, his expertise in foreign policy, and his leadership in international forums, including serving twice as president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
Tributes and Future Leadership
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) paid tribute to Connolly, highlighting his dedication to public servants and his signature wit.
“Even as he battled a difficult cancer diagnosis, Ranking Member Connolly continued to push back against the unprecedented attacks on federal workers in his district and across the country,” Jeffries said. “In addition to his legislative wisdom, Gerry always brought his signature mirth and wit to the House.”
With Connolly’s passing, Democrats will need to elect a new ranking member for the Oversight Committee. In addition to Lynch, Reps. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas), and Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) are reportedly expressing interest in the role.
Connolly’s career was defined by a consistent commitment to governance, oversight, and service. His passing marks the end of an era in Northern Virginia politics and a significant loss for the Democratic caucus.