Rep. Gerry Connolly has passed away at 75, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service that spanned decades. His death has prompted an outpouring of bipartisan tributes recognizing his commitment to Virginia’s interests and advocacy for federal workers. How can Virginia approach the special election while being respectful?
A Respected Statesman Mourned Across Party Lines
Democratic Virginia Representative Gerry Connolly has died at age 75 following his battle with esophageal cancer, prompting an outpouring of bipartisan condolences. News of his passing was delivered to colleagues during a House Rules Committee meeting by Chairwoman Virginia Foxx, who asked members to “stop and say a prayer for his family.”
Rep. Rich McCormick, a Republican, remembered Connolly as “always a gentleman” who “always greeted you with a smile,” despite their political differences. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson called Connolly “a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for his Northern Virginia constituents,” while the Fairfax Republican Party extended “deepest condolences” to his family.
— Rep. Gerry Connolly (@GerryConnolly) May 21, 2025
A Consequential Congressional Career
Connolly had recently won a competitive race to become the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, defeating progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. His political career included service on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and as a Democratic staffer on the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee before his 2008 election to Congress, where he was subsequently re-elected eight times.
Known as a staunch advocate for federal workers in his Northern Virginia district, Connolly had announced in April that his esophageal cancer had returned. He indicated at that time he would not seek re-election in 2026, though he planned to complete his current term while stepping back temporarily from his committee leadership role.
My Statement on the Passing of Congressman Gerry Connolly pic.twitter.com/3JQDe7mb4i
— Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (@RepJasmine) May 21, 2025
Political Implications and Legacy
Connolly’s death marks the third among Democratic House members since the November election, further shifting the chamber’s balance to a 220-212 Republican majority. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin will now call a special election to fill the vacant seat, potentially impacting the slim Republican majority if Democrats can quickly reclaim the traditionally blue district.
His family’s statement highlighted that “more important than his accomplishments in elected office, Gerry lived by the ethos of ‘bloom where you are planted.'” From infrastructure projects like the Silver Line to the Oakton Library and Cross County Trail, Connolly’s legacy will continue to shape Northern Virginia for generations to come.