Virginia Rep. Gerry Connolly Dies at 75 After Cancer Battle

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), a longtime advocate for U.S.-South Korea relations and an influential Democratic lawmaker, died at age 75 after battling esophageal cancer. Serving Virginia's 11th Congressional District since 2009, Connolly was co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Korea and a vocal supporter of foreign policy initiatives, including recent sanctions against North Korea-Russia cooperation. Connolly announced in April that he would not seek reelection in 2026 due to the return of his cancer and planned to step down from his role as the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee. His passing prompted a moment of silence among House members, reflecting the respect he commanded across party lines. Connolly's family highlighted his dedication to public service and his impact on the community, while the South Korean Embassy and colleagues mourned a principled leader and strong supporter of the U.S.-South Korea alliance. With several candidates already vying to fill his congressional seat, his death leaves a significant void in Northern Virginia and national politics.