Rep. Gerald “Gerry” Connolly, a prominent Democrat from Virginia known for championing federal reforms and transforming northern Virginia’s infrastructure, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 75. He died peacefully at home surrounded by family.
Connolly had represented Virginia’s 11th District in Congress for over 16 years and most recently served as the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee. He announced in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and later revealed plans to retire from public office. His passing leaves Republicans with a 220-212 majority in the House.
Widely recognized for his sharp wit and willingness to engage in heated debates, Connolly was known for his outspoken defense of federal workers and bold criticism of political adversaries. In one notable hearing, he likened Republican scrutiny of the IRS to a scene from The Crucible, accusing them of conducting a political witch hunt.
Senator Mark Warner of Virginia called Connolly a model of public service, praising his resilience during his final battle with cancer. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries also honored Connolly as a tireless and honorable lawmaker who fiercely defended civil servants and democratic institutions.
Connolly’s political journey began in 1995 when he was elected to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. As board chairman starting in 2003, he led major development efforts in Tysons Corner, helping turn it from a congested mall area into a thriving business center. A key focus was expanding public transit, culminating in the launch of the Silver Line in 2014 and its extension to Dulles International Airport in 2022.
He entered Congress in 2008, flipping a Republican-held seat and pledging to make government more responsive and accountable. His early experience as a Senate staffer in the 1980s laid the foundation for a legislative career that included service on both the House Foreign Affairs and Oversight Committees.
Connolly was instrumental in passing the 2010 Telework Enhancement Act and a 2014 federal IT reform bill, both of which improved government efficiency and saved billions in taxpayer dollars. He was also a vocal critic of efforts to undermine the U.S. Postal Service, especially during the 2020 election.
In late 2023, Connolly was elected ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, defeating Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for the role. From that position, he pushed for investigations into federal misconduct and potential conflicts of interest involving figures like Elon Musk.
After revealing in April 2025 that his cancer had returned, Connolly stepped down from his committee leadership and confirmed he would not seek another term. Reflecting on his career, he said, “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.”
