In a development that has caught many by surprise, Representative Gerry Connolly of Virginia has announced his decision not to seek reelection in 2026.
More immediately, he will be relinquishing his role as the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee. This decision comes as Connolly faces a renewed battle with cancer, a challenge that has prompted him to step back from his leadership responsibilities.
As reported by RedState, Connolly, who has been a fixture in Congress since 2009, revealed his diagnosis of esophageal cancer shortly before securing reelection in November 2024. He has since been undergoing rigorous treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Despite these efforts, Connolly's cancer has unfortunately returned, necessitating his decision to focus on his health and family.
Connolly's tenure in Congress has been marked by his commitment to public service and his leadership on the Oversight Committee. Following his reelection, he successfully defended his position against a challenge from New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for the top Democrat spot on the committee, winning the contest by a margin of 131-84. With Connolly stepping down, it remains to be seen whether Ocasio-Cortez will renew her bid for the leadership role.
In his heartfelt announcement, Connolly expressed gratitude for the support he has received, stating, "I want to begin by thanking you for your good wishes and compassion as I continue to tackle my diagnosis. Your outpouring of love and support has given me strength in my fights both against cancer and in our collective defense of democracy."
He further shared, "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 weve accomplished together over 30 years."
Connolly's departure from Congress marks the end of a significant chapter in his career, one characterized by dedication to his constituents and a steadfast commitment to democratic principles. As he transitions into this new phase, his legacy of service and leadership will undoubtedly be remembered by those he has served.
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