A seasoned Democratic representative prepares for his final months in Congress as health challenges reshape his three-decade political career.

According to Fox News, Rep. Gerry Connolly announced Monday he will not seek re-election and will step down from his leadership position as ranking member of the House Oversight Committee after learning his cancer has returned.

The 75-year-old Virginia Democrat, who has represented the state's 11th Congressional District for nine terms, revealed the recurrence of his esophageal cancer approximately six months after his initial diagnosis. His district, which encompasses the affluent suburbs outside Washington D.C., has been under his stewardship since his first election to the House of Representatives.

Three decades of public service draw to close

Connolly's political journey spans approximately 30 years, beginning with his election as a Fairfax County supervisor in 1995. Throughout his tenure in Congress, he has established himself as a prominent figure in oversight investigations, contributing significantly to various legislative initiatives.

The announcement marks a significant shift in Virginia's political landscape, as Connolly has been a stalwart representative of Northern Virginia's interests in Congress. His current term, secured through a victory over Republican challenger Mike Van Meter, a Navy veteran and former FBI agent, will be his last.

In his statement to constituents, Connolly expressed his commitment to continue serving despite the challenging circumstances. He emphasized his dedication to his role while acknowledging the need to step back from his committee responsibilities.

Bipartisan support and well wishes

Fellow lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have expressed their support for Connolly during this difficult time. His colleague from Virginia, Democratic Senator Mark Warner, offered particularly moving words of support.

Warner stated:

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.

Connolly himself reflected on his service with characteristic grace, stating:

The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress. I will be stepping back as Ranking Member of the Oversight Committee soon. 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.

Impact on Virginia's political future

The announcement creates a significant opening in Virginia's 11th Congressional District, centered in Fairfax County. The traditionally Democratic-leaning district will likely attract considerable attention from both parties as they prepare for the upcoming election cycle.

The timing of Connolly's announcement allows both Democratic and Republican parties adequate time to field candidates for the seat. The district's demographic makeup and voting history will play crucial roles in determining its future representation.

A distinguished lawmaker's farewell

Rep. Gerry Connolly's decision to step down from Congress comes after a distinguished career spanning multiple decades in public service. His departure was prompted by the return of esophageal cancer, which he had initially fought off through intensive treatments.

While maintaining his seat until the end of his term, he will relinquish his position as ranking member of the House Oversight Committee in the coming days, marking the conclusion of his significant contributions to national politics and his dedicated service to Northern Virginia's constituents.