Representative Gerry Connolly, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, announced on Monday that he will soon step down from his leadership role and will not seek re-election, as his esophageal cancer has returned.
“The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress,” Mr. Connolly, 75, said in a statement. “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.”
Mr. Connolly, who has represented Virginia’s 11th Congressional District since 2009, revealed his diagnosis of esophageal cancer in November 2024. “When I announced my diagnosis six months ago, I promised transparency,” he said. “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.”
In December, Mr. Connolly secured the ranking member position on the Oversight Committee, defeating Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, 35, who sought to usher in a new generation of Democratic leadership. According to Democratic sources, Mr. Connolly won the vote 131-84, solidifying his influence in one of Congress’s most prominent roles, particularly as Democrats prepare to counter a Republican-controlled Congress and the incoming Trump administration.
A veteran lawmaker, Mr. Connolly has served on the Oversight Committee since his first term and led Democrats on its subcommittee on government operations since 2013. His tenure has been marked by efforts to strengthen government accountability and transparency.
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