Gerry Connolly, senior member of the House appropriations committee and longtime Democratic Congressman from Virginia has died at 75. He continued to fight valiantly against esophageal cancer until the very end. He passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, marking the end of a significant chapter in Northern Virginia’s political landscape.
Connolly has served in the U.S. House of Representatives for over 15 years. He was elected initially in 2008. He represented the constituents of Northern Virginia and was known for his advocacy on behalf of federal employees in his district. In December, he was elected to serve as the top Democrat on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. He won this prestigious posting after a brutal primary competition in which Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ran against him.
In November, Connolly was diagnosed with throat cancer — a formidable opponent, at first without any significant symptoms. However, sadly, the cancer has come back, and he has had to resign from his chairmanship on the crucial appropriation committee. His decision to resign was an acknowledgement of the severity of his diagnosis and intent to prioritize treatment.
Despite Connolly’s long illness, he retained his fighting spirit and an incredible spirit of optimism. He famously stated that he would confront cancer “the only way I know how — with Irish fight and humor.” His remarkable resilience quickly became clear as he got back to work serving his constituents and being active on the issues facing his community.
Connolly’s legacy earned him the respect of his colleagues, competitors, and others recognized by his public service contributions. Most importantly, he was admired for his dogged defense of the most vulnerable among us and his fierce passion for justice and democracy.
“He met every challenge with tenacity and purpose, including his final battle with cancer, which he faced with courage, grace, and quiet dignity,” – The senator.
His family released a statement expressing their grief over his passing:
“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.”
Virginia Foxx urged those in the community to take a moment to remember Connolly’s contributions, saying:
“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…”
Virginia Foxx urged those in the community to take a moment to remember Connolly’s contributions, saying:
“To stop and say a prayer for his family, please take some time.”