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By Jenna Sundel and Gabe Whisnant
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Democratic Representative Gerry Connolly of Virginia said Monday that he will step down from the House Oversight Committee and will not run for reelection in 2026 due to his ongoing cancer battle.
Why It Matters
Connolly,75, defeated New York Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, 35, by a 131-84 margin in December to become the next House Oversight Committee ranking Democrat. The position became vacant after Representative Jamie Raskin of Maryland left to become the ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee.
Read More on Politics
Connolly's victory was seen as a win for former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who is said to have lobbied members to vote for him.
The selection process led to criticism of the Democratic Party for maintaining a "gerontocracy," or rule by the elderly, rather than uplifting voices from younger generations.
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What To Know
Connolly announced that this will be his final term in Congress in a letter posted on X, formerly Twitter.
"When I announced my diagnosis six months ago, I promised transparency," Connolly wrote. "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."
Connolly represents a Virginia congressional district that includes Washington, D.C., suburbs. He was first elected in 2008 and has served on the Oversight Committee since 2009. He announced in November that he is fighting esophageal cancer.
Connolly's political career began in 1995, when he was elected to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.
What People Are Saying
Representative Gerry Connolly, in a letter posted to X: "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. My loving family and staff sustain me. My extended family — you all have been a joy to serve."
Texas Democratic Representative and Oversight Committee vice ranking member Jasmine Crockett, on X: "You've been a fierce defender of truth and accountability, and it's been an honor to not only serve alongside you, but to learn from you. We're keeping you in our prayers as you battle cancer—wishing you strength, healing, and peace every step of the way."
What Happens Next
The ranking member position on the Oversight Committee must be filled within 30 days from the date the vacancy occurred, according to House Democratic Caucus rules. The caucus will hold a vote to decide who should fill the position.
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Update 4/28/25, 12:28 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
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