U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va) at Juneteenth 2022, Liberty Amendment Month, Town of Vienna, June 18, 2022.
U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly, who was recently elected to his ninth term in the U.S. House of Representatives for Virginia's 11th District, which encompasses much of Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax, released an updated letter to his constituents on social media late this morning, Monday, April 28, addressing "Dear Friends."
Connolly says that “the sun is setting” on his time in public service. He disclosed that this will be his "last term in Congress." In 2026, he will not seek reelection.
Connolly, who is 75 years old as of March 30, said that he has been undergoing "grueling" treatments for his esophageal cancer. However, the cancer has returned, despite the initial success of the treatments.
“I’ll do everything possible to continue to represent you and thank you for your grace,” he wrote.
In early November of last year, Connolly released a letter to his constituents stating that he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer. The diagnosis took him aback, as his only symptoms were intermittent abdominal aches and pains. At the time, Connolly said he would begin chemotherapy and immunotherapy right away.
In typical Connolly fashion, he wrote, “Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how — with Irish fight and humor.” Connolly reassured his constituents, “With a great team of doctors, nurses, and medical technicians, we are very confident in a successful outcome.”
Connolly made a second announcement in today’s letter. He will soon step down as the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee.
Connolly said he would finish out the remainder of his term 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.”
Connolly described how his “loving family and staff sustain” him. To his extended family, he closed his letter by saying, "You all have been a joy to serve.” He signed it, “Your friend and public servant, Gerry Connolly.”
Following Connolly's announcement this morning that he will not seek reelection due to a resurgence of cancer, political leaders across Virginia and Washington, D.C., expressed their reaction.
U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA): “For decades, my friend Gerry Connolly has shown Virginia and the country how to fight for what is right. No one has fought harder when it comes to Virginia’s federal workforce, transportation infrastructure, congressional oversight, and our commitment to critical alliances like NATO. I’m deeply moved by the way he has brought that same courage to his fight against cancer, and will do all I can to support him and his family.”
U.S. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA): 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. I have no doubt that Gerry will continue to fight — for his health, for his community, and for the causes he believes in.
House Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-KY): I’m saddened to hear that Ranking Member Connolly’s cancer has returned. He is a steadfast public servant who has spent his career serving Northern Virginians with honor and integrity. It’s an honor to serve the American people alongside him, and I am rooting for him as he battles cancer once again. Our prayers are with Ranking Member Connolly and his family.”
U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA): I can't imagine the House without Gerry Connolly, and I will miss our partnership immeasurably. He will leave an indelible mark on Fairfax County, our region, Virginia, and our country, and Northern Virginia is a better place for Gerry's decision to enter public service.
State Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax: “The Congressman was a visionary leader for Fairfax County who moved on to a national role defending federal workers and our democratic institutions. His deep commitment to the people he serves has left an indelible mark on our Commonwealth and our nation. Gerry’s courage in the face of personal challenge reflects the same resilience and strength he has shown throughout his career. Even now, his focus remains on service, transparency and gratitude — the true marks of a public servant. Northern Virginia is a better, stronger place because of Gerry Connolly’s tireless advocacy, and our democracy is healthier because of his unwavering dedication.”
State Sen. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, chair of the Democratic Party of Virginia: "Congressman Gerry Connolly is the true definition of a public servant. From his early days on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to his over sixteen years in Congress, he has been a champion for Virginians and Americans alike. He’s been a fierce defender of federal workers, a staunch advocate for good government, and a dedicated partner in building stronger democracies around the world. … He also brings incredible courage and determination in the face of every challenge, and we all know that cancer stands no chance against his fighting Irish spirit.”
Jeff McKay, chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors: “I have great respect for Congressman Gerry Connolly's decision and admire his strength in prioritizing his health while continuing to focus on how he can best serve. … His leadership on issues ranging from affordable housing to environmental protection has made a lasting impact on our community and beyond.”
Fairfax County Supervisor James R. Walkinshaw: “Congressman Connolly is a giant and his impact on Fairfax County, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and our nation is immeasurable. From civic leader, to the Board of Supervisors, to Congress and the Presidency of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, he has led with integrity, intellect, and energy. His work has touched every corner of our community – the Oakton Library, the Mosaic District, Metro’s Silver Line, and the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail. Throughout his career, he’s taken on the tough fights and never hesitated to do what’s right for the people he represents, even in the face of intense political pressure. He was instrumental in passage of the Affordable Care Act, despite knowing that he risked losing his seat. As Ranking Member of the Oversight Committee, he has vigorously defended our democracy against the assaults of the Trump Administration. And internationally, he has worked to repair and strengthen alliances key to American prosperity and security.”
Fairfax County Supervisor Walter Alcorn: ”As a public servant, [Connolly] sets the gold standard for constituent service, and he’s a constant presence in our community whether it’s attending a Boy Scout meeting or showing up for larger community events like MLK Day celebrations, Viva Vienna, Reston Pride, or Reston’s Founders Day, both before and after Reston’s founder Robert E. Simon Jr. was still with us.”