Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia announced on Monday that he will step down as the top Democrat on the influential House Oversight and Accountability Committee and will not seek reelection due to his cancer returning. The 75-year-old congressman, who has served in Congress since 2009, expressed pride in his career, reflecting on his time in public service.
“The sun is setting on my time in public service,” Connolly stated in his announcement. “With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we’ve accomplished together over 30 years.”
A Long Career of Service and Advocacy
Connolly, who represents Virginia’s northern suburbs, including Fairfax County, has been a prominent figure in Congress for over three decades. Known for his strong advocacy for federal workers, Connolly’s work was especially critical during the Trump administration, which launched significant attacks on federal employees.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) praised Connolly’s relentless efforts, emphasizing his commitment to defending the rights and interests of federal workers. “Gerry Connolly has been a relentless advocate for the incredible civil servants in his district,” Jeffries said.
Virginia Sen. Mark Warner also commended Connolly’s resilience, noting his unwavering determination in the face of personal and professional challenges. “Whether it’s standing up for federal workers, advocating for good governance, or now confronting cancer with the same resilience and grit that have defined his life of public service, Gerry is one of the toughest fighters I know,” Warner said in his statement.
Connolly’s Battle with Cancer
Connolly revealed his esophageal cancer diagnosis late last year and underwent aggressive treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. However, he shared that despite the difficult treatments, his cancer has unfortunately returned. This health battle has led to his decision to step down from his leadership position on the House Oversight Committee, one of the most powerful and high-profile committees in Congress.
Connolly’s health also became a factor in the recent contest for the top Democratic spot on the Oversight Committee. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) challenged Connolly for the position, but the seniority system ultimately prevailed, and Connolly remained at the helm.
A Career of Advocacy and Impact in Northern Virginia
Before his time in Congress, Connolly was deeply embedded in Virginia politics. He served as a staffer for the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations in the 1980s and later became a fixture of northern Virginia’s political landscape. Connolly was first elected to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in 1995, serving as its chairman from 2003 to 2009.
One of Connolly’s most significant contributions to the region was his leadership in securing funding for the development of the Silver Line of the Washington Metro, which now extends to Dulles International Airport. His role in shaping northern Virginia’s transportation infrastructure remains one of his lasting legacies.
A Final Chapter in Public Service
Connolly’s announcement marks the end of an era in Virginia’s political landscape. His leadership and commitment to public service have left a profound impact on his constituents and colleagues alike. As he faces his cancer diagnosis, Connolly has chosen to retire from the political stage with a sense of pride in his long and distinguished career.
