Rep. Gerry Connolly, 75, has died, family statement says

Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia died on Wednesday morning, according to a statement from his family. He was 75.

“It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family,” the statement said.

Last month, Connolly announced that he would not seek reelection and would soon step down from his leadership position on the powerful House Oversight Committee.

Connolly said at the time that his esophageal cancer — a diagnosis he shared in November — had returned.

“When I announced my diagnosis six months ago, I promised transparency. After grueling treatments, we’ve learned that the cancer, while initially beaten back, has now returned. I’ll do everything possible to continue to represent you and thank you for your grace,” he said in a statement at the time.

Connolly has served as a congressman from Virginia’s 11th district, which includes parts of northern Virginia, since 2009. Before that, he served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for 14 years.

The statement from Connolly’s family on Wednesday added: “Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better. He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just.”

“His absence will leave a hole in our hearts, but we are proud that his life’s work will endure for future generations. We thank you for your love of Gerry, and know he loved you all so much.”

The Maestro of Metro and Modernization

Imagine a conductor orchestrating a symphony where each instrument represents a facet of governance—transportation, technology, environmental policy, and public service. Gerry Connolly was that maestro, harmonizing the complexities of Northern Virginia's growth into a cohesive and progressive composition.

on March 30, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts, Connolly's early life was steeped in the rich political culture of New England. His academic pursuits led him to Maryknoll College for a B.A. in Literature, followed by an M.P.A. from Harvard University in 1979. These formative years laid the groundwork for a career characterized by intellectual rigor and a commitment to public service.

From Local Steward to National Statesman

Connolly's political journey commenced on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in 1995, where he served until 2009, including a tenure as Chairman starting in 2003. During this period, he was instrumental in transforming Tysons Corner from a congested commercial area into a thriving business hub, exemplifying his vision for smart growth and urban development.

In 2008, Connolly was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Virginia's 11th district, a role he held until his passing in 2025. His district, encompassing Fairfax County and the City of Fairfax, benefited from his relentless advocacy for infrastructure improvements, including the expansion of the Silver Line Metro to Dulles Airport, completed in 2022.

💼 Championing Government Efficiency and Accountability

Connolly's tenure in Congress was marked by a steadfast commitment to enhancing government operations. He played a pivotal role in the passage of the 2010 Telework Enhancement Act, promoting flexible work arrangements for federal employees. Further solidifying his legacy, he was a key architect of the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA) in 2014, aiming to streamline IT procurement and improve cybersecurity across federal agencies.

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His leadership extended to the House Oversight and Reform Committee, where he served as the Ranking Member. In this capacity, Connolly was a vocal advocate for transparency and accountability, often challenging administrative overreach and championing the rights of federal workers.

A Global Perspective with Local Impact

Connolly's expertise wasn't confined to domestic affairs. His background in foreign policy, including work with the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, informed his contributions to international relations. He served as President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, reflecting his commitment to global cooperation and security.

His legislative record includes support for military aid packages to Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, emphasizing his belief in supporting democratic allies. Connolly's nuanced positions often balanced national interests with a commitment to human rights and international law.

Ideological Compass: Progressive Pragmatism

A self-described progressive, Connolly's policy positions reflected a blend of idealism and practicality. He was a staunch advocate for reproductive rights, voting against measures that sought to limit access to abortion services. His environmental initiatives included efforts to protect parklands and promote sustainable development.

Connolly's voting record aligned closely with President Joe Biden's agenda, demonstrating party loyalty while maintaining an independent streak when necessary.

Family and Personal Life

Beyond the political arena, Connolly was a family man. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Smith, and their daughter, Caitlin. His personal experiences often informed his empathetic approach to policy, particularly in areas affecting families and communities.

Legacy and Final Chapter

In April 2025, Connolly announced he would not seek re-election due to a recurrence of esophageal cancer. He endorsed his former chief of staff, James Walkinshaw, as his successor, ensuring continuity in representation for his constituents.

Connolly passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service and transformative impact on Northern Virginia.

Conclusion: A Blueprint for Public Service

Gerry Connolly's life and career offer a blueprint for effective public service—grounded in community engagement, informed by global awareness, and executed with unwavering integrity. His contributions continue to resonate, serving as a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful and committed leadership.