ADVERTISEMENTs
Lawmakers mourn loss of VA Rep. Gerry Connolly
Connolly passed away at his home in Fairfax County on May 21 after a battle with esophageal cancer.
-
Malvika Choudhary - Wed, 21, May 2025
- 14:19 EDT
- 15
Indian American Lawmakers / File Photo
The death of longtime Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly has drawn a wave of tributes from Indian American lawmakers, who lauded his decades-long commitment to public service and mentorship.
Representing Virginia’s 11th District since 2009, Connolly passed away at his home in Fairfax County on May 21 following a battle with esophageal cancer—a diagnosis he publicly disclosed in November 2024. In April 2025, he announced that he would not seek re-election in 2026 due to health concerns.
Also Read: https://www.newindiaabroad.com/news/democrats-launch-inquiry-over-indian-american-layoffs-at-fannie-mae
Also Read: Democrats launch inquiry over Indian American layoffs at Fannie Mae
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA) mourned the loss, describing Connolly as “a colleague, a mentor, and above all, a friend.” “”His humor, his toughness, and his love for his community and country made him one of the most effective members of Congress."
Subramanyam highlighted Connolly's instrumental role in his transition to Congress and the Oversight Committee. “He was a lion of Northern Virginia politics and always a sounding board and partner on the campaign trail. In recent months, his mentorship helped me transition into Congress and onto the Oversight Committee, a committee where his years of leadership has improved the lives of countless federal workers and Northern Virginia families,” he added.
My statement on the passing of my friend, Congressman @GerryConnolly. pic.twitter.com/yAbq5MaqBp
— Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) (@RepSuhas) May 21, 2025
Representative Ami Bera (D-CA), who served alongside Connolly on the House Foreign Affairs Committee for 12 years, remembered him as "a true statesman" who brought "principle, wit and conviction to every debate." He emphasized Connolly's dedication to freedom and democracy both domestically and internationally.
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my good friend and colleague Gerry Connolly.
— Ami Bera, M.D. (@RepBera) May 21, 2025
Read my full statement: pic.twitter.com/HI7nauM5MP
Other Indian American lawmakers also paid tribute. Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) described Connolly as "a champion for his district and a leader in our party." Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) noted, "He was a passionate public servant who always fought for his constituents."
Representative Shri Thanedar (D-MI) acknowledged Connolly's service, stating he "will be dearly missed." Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) called him "a tireless champion of effective oversight, a brilliant legislator, and a cherished presence in the House."
Congressman Gerry Connolly was a passionate public servant for the American people, and he will be dearly missed.
— Congressman Shri Thanedar (@RepShriThanedar) May 21, 2025
My heart is with his family and the constituents of Virginia's 11th during this challenging time. https://t.co/Ztgw1OV2m7
Connolly’s political career spanned more than four decades. Prior to his election to Congress, he served 14 years on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, including five as chairman. In Congress, he became known for his staunch support of federal workers, government reform, and infrastructure investment—most notably, his backing of the Silver Line Metrorail extension to Washington Dulles International Airport.
His legislative accomplishments include co-authoring the Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA), which reform federal IT procurement, and promoting expanded telework policies for federal employees. He also helped position Northern Virginia as a growing tech corridor.
The 11th District seat now stands vacant. Among potential successors is Connolly’s former chief of staff and current Fairfax County Supervisor, James Walkinshaw.
He is survived by his wife, Cathy Smith, and their daughter, Caitlin.
Related
.jpg)
.jpg)
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
ADVERTISEMENT
.jpg)
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login