Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly Dies at 75 in Virginia

Representative Gerry Connolly, the senior Democrat on the House Oversight Committee and longtime congressman for Virginia's 11th district, died peacefully at his home at age 75 after a battle with esophageal cancer. Connolly, who had announced last month that he would not seek reelection due to the return of his cancer, was remembered by his family as a devoted public servant who championed the disadvantaged, democracy, and the environment. First elected in 2008 and serving his ninth term, he was also a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and a former Fairfax County Board of Supervisors executive. His death was announced during a House Rules Committee meeting, where members paused to honor him. Connolly's legacy includes his work on local and international issues, with a commitment to justice and community improvement. His family expressed gratitude for the love shown to him and highlighted his lifelong dedication to public service.