


Rep. Gerry Connolly, Longtime Virginia Congressman, Dies at 75 After Battle with Cancer
Gerry Connolly passed away at home after battling esophageal cancer, leaving a legacy of public service and key transportation reforms in Virginia.
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Overview
Rep. Gerry Connolly, 75, died at home on Wednesday, surrounded by family, after a battle with esophageal cancer. A fixture in Virginia politics for over 30 years, he served in Congress since 2009 and was the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee. Connolly was instrumental in promoting transportation initiatives like the Silver Line rail project, which connected D.C. to Northern Virginia. His family remembered him as a dedicated public servant. His passing leaves Republicans with a tighter majority in the House, and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin must set a timeline for Connolly’s replacement.
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Rep. Gerry Connolly was a prominent figure in Virginia politics, serving in Congress since 2009 and as the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee. He had announced his decision not to seek reelection in 2026 due to his esophageal cancer's return.
Rep. Gerry Connolly was instrumental in promoting transportation initiatives, notably the Silver Line rail project, which connected D.C. to Northern Virginia.
The vacancy will reduce the Democratic presence in the House, tightening the Republican majority. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin must set a timeline for Connolly's replacement.
Rep. Gerry Connolly is remembered for his dedication to community service, advocating for the marginalized, and enhancing democracy, environment, and government accountability.
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