Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly Dies at 75 After Battle with Cancer

FAIRFAX, VA — Gerry Connolly, the longtime Democratic congressman representing Virginia’s 11th District, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 75, following a battle with esophageal cancer. He died peacefully at his home in Mantua, Virginia, surrounded by his family.

Connolly had served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2009, representing a district encompassing much of Fairfax County and Fairfax City. Prior to his congressional tenure, he was a prominent figure in local politics, serving on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 1995 to 2009, including six years as chairman.

A staunch advocate for federal employees, Connolly championed legislation to modernize government IT systems and improve telework capabilities. He co-sponsored the 2010 Telework Enhancement Act and the 2014 FITARA Act, aiming to enhance federal workforce efficiency.

In April 2025, Connolly announced he would not seek re-election and stepped down from his role as the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, citing the return of his cancer. Just days before his passing, he introduced the Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act to promote early detection and research.

Connolly’s death marks the third Democratic House member to die in office since March 2025, following Reps. Sylvester Turner of Texas and Raúl Grijalva of Arizona.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy, and daughter, Caitlin. Tributes from colleagues across the political spectrum have lauded his dedication to public service and his impact on both local and national levels.

A special election will be held later this year to fill the vacant seat in Virginia’s 11th District.