Democratic Representative Gerry Connolly, a longtime fixture in Virginia politics, has died according to his family. Connolly was 75 when he passed away May 21, 2025, and suffered from esophageal cancer.
Connolly had a long career in Northern Virginia politics. He spent ten years on the staff of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. He went on to serve on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 1995-2009 when he left to represent Virginia’s 11th Congressional District.
While in Congress, Connolly served on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Oversight and Reform, for which he became Ranking Membe in 2025.
Connolly also served on the US Delegation to NATO Parliamentary Assembly and served as President of that body. The Assembly is set to meet next week in Dayton, OH.
Connolly often clashed with Republicans on issues of government accountability and Israeli defense.
During his service on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Connolly was instrumental in pushing for changes in the metro system that eventually resulted in the Silver Line and additional rail line to Dulles International Airport.
“He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just,” his family said in a statement. “He was a skilled statesman on the international stage, an accomplished legislator in Congress, a visionary executive on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, a fierce defender of democracy, an environmental champion, and a mentor to so many.”
“I am heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend,” said Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA). “To me, he exemplified the very best of public service.”
Gov. Glenn Youngkin has not released a timeline for a special election to fill the rest of Congressman Connolly’s term.