1 week Ago
FAIRFAX, Va. — Longtime U.S.
Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) announced on Monday that he will not seek reelection, and he will soon step back from his leadership role on the House Oversight Committee, citing a return of his cancer diagnosis. In an open letter to his constituents, Connolly shared the difficult news, expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received since first announcing his diagnosis six months ago.
"Your outpouring of love and support has given me strength in my fights – both against cancer and in our collective defense of democracy," Connolly wrote. The Northern Virginia congressman said that although his initial treatments had beaten back the cancer, it has now returned. In light of this development, Connolly made the decision to finish out his current term but not seek another.
"The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress," Connolly wrote. "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." Connolly, who has represented Virginia’s 11th District since 2009, has been an advocate for federal workers, a strong voice on the Oversight Committee, and a staunch defender of democratic institutions.
Prior to his time in Congress, he served for 14 years on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, including five years as chairman. He credited his family, staff, and constituents for sustaining him through his years of service, closing his letter simply: "My extended family – you all have been a joy to serve." Connolly said he will soon step back as Ranking Member of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee to focus on his health.
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) responded to the news, saying, “Throughout his career, Gerry Connolly has exemplified the very best of public service — fiercely intelligent, deeply principled, and relentlessly committed to the people of Northern Virginia and our nation. 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.
I have no doubt that Gerry will continue to fight — for his health, for his community, and for the causes he believes in. “I am proud to call Gerry a friend. Lisa and I are keeping him in our hearts and prayers, and we stand with him every step of the way.
” Congressman Don Beyer also issued a statement: “Northern Virginia is a better place for Gerry Connolly’s decision to enter public service. He has left an indelible mark on Fairfax County, our region, our Commonwealth, and our country as a tireless advocate for our federal workforce, the U.S.
Postal Service, and our public transit system. He served his constituents faithfully, was a vigorous fighter for government reform, and remains one of the most effective legislators in either party. I cannot imagine the House without Gerry.
We have been friends for many years, but for the past decade our partnership was an essential starting point from which so much important work followed. I deeply respect Gerry’s decision to put his constituents first by stepping back, but I will miss him terribly in Congress. Megan and I send our love to Gerry, Smitty, and the Connolly family, with thanks for years of friendship and a great career, and our best hopes for the future.
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