Virginia's longtime Democratic Congressman faces a somber setback in his public service career that spans three decades.
According to Fox News, Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., revealed on Monday that his cancer has returned, prompting him to step down from his leadership position and declare his current term as his last in Congress.
The 75-year-old lawmaker, who initially received an esophageal cancer diagnosis approximately six months ago, will relinquish his role as ranking member of the House Oversight Committee. His announcement marks the conclusion of a distinguished political career that has significantly shaped northern Virginia's political landscape for the past 30 years.
In his heartfelt statement to constituents, Connolly expressed his determination to continue serving despite the challenging circumstances. He confirmed that while initial treatments appeared successful in fighting the cancer, recent developments have revealed its return.
The nine-term congressman, representing Virginia's 11th District, has been a prominent figure in the wealthy suburbs outside Washington, D.C. His district, centered in Fairfax County, has consistently supported his leadership through multiple terms.
Connolly's political journey began in 1995 when he was elected as a Fairfax County supervisor, establishing himself as an influential voice in local governance before advancing to national politics.
Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., led the tributes to his fellow Virginia Democrat, highlighting Connolly's exceptional dedication to public service. Warner emphasized Connolly's remarkable qualities as a public servant:
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 shared his perspective on this transition with characteristic grace:
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.
Throughout his congressional tenure, Connolly has played a crucial role in oversight investigations, establishing himself as a respected voice in national politics. His most recent electoral victory came against Republican Mike Van Meter, a Navy veteran and former FBI agent.
His commitment to his constituents has remained unwavering, even as he confronted his initial cancer diagnosis. Connolly's leadership style has consistently emphasized the importance of good governance and advocacy for federal workers.
The announcement of his stepping back from the Oversight Committee leadership position signals a significant shift in House Democratic leadership, particularly in crucial oversight responsibilities.
Representative Gerry Connolly's announcement marks the end of an era in Virginia politics as the veteran Democratic congressman prepares to conclude his service due to his renewed battle with cancer.
The longtime public servant will complete his current term while stepping back from his leadership role on the House Oversight Committee, bringing to close a career that began in local politics in 1995 and culminated in nine terms representing Virginia's 11th Congressional District.
