Virginia’s Gerry Connolly to Step Down From Congress and Oversight Role
Democrat Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia, 75, announced on Monday that he will retire from Congress at the end of his current term, citing a return of his esophageal cancer. Connolly, who has served in Congress since 2009 and currently holds the position of Ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee, will also relinquish his leadership role as required within the next 30 days.
The announcement marks a somber moment for House Democrats, particularly as Connolly has been a prominent voice on government oversight and investigations for more than a decade.
Connolly’s Statement: “The Sun is Setting on My Time in Public Service”
In a heartfelt public statement, Connolly thanked his constituents, colleagues, and family for their support throughout his cancer battle:
“Your outpouring of love and support has given me strength in my fights – both against cancer and in our collective defense of democracy,” Connolly wrote.
He revealed that after aggressive treatments initially suppressed the disease, it has unfortunately returned, prompting his decision to step away from political life with “no rancor and a full heart.”
“The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress. I will be stepping back as Ranking Member of the Oversight Committee soon. 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.”
Leadership Changes Ahead
Connolly’s retirement immediately triggers a process to appoint a new Ranking Member to the powerful Oversight Committee, a move that must happen within 30 days according to Democratic Caucus rules. The battle for the spot could shape the party’s strategy heading into a contentious 2026 election cycle.
The Oversight Committee has been at the center of major investigations into both Republican and Democratic administrations, and leadership changes here could have wide-ranging impacts on upcoming political battles.
A Career Marked by Advocacy and Oversight
Connolly, who served previously as Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, became a prominent figure in Congress for his sharp questioning during hearings and his vocal defense of federal workers and democratic institutions.
His departure adds to a growing list of long-serving Democrats opting to leave office ahead of what promises to be one of the most volatile electoral cycles in modern history.
Final Chapter
Despite stepping back from public service, Connolly emphasized that he remains proud of his decades-long career and thanked his supporters for standing by him during difficult times.
“My loving family and staff sustain me,” Connolly said. “My extended family – you all have been a joy to serve.”
