Rep. Connolly announces cancer diagnosis

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D) announced to his constituents on Nov. 7 that he has cancer.

“A few days ago, I learned I joined the ranks of millions of Americans,” Connolly wrote on Facebook and X. “I have cancer of the esophagus. It was a surprise because, except for some intermittent abdominal aches and pains, I had no symptoms.”

Connolly has represented Northern Virginia in Congress since 2009. He was re-elected on Nov. 5 with over 66 percent of the vote.

He plans to start chemotherapy and immunotherapy right away. “Cancer can be tough. But so am I. I will attack this the only way I know how – with Irish fight and humor.”

“With a great team of doctors, nurses, and medical technicians, we are very confident in a successful outcome,” Connolly wrote. “Over the next few months as I do my job here in our district and on the Hill, I may be a bit fatigued due to the treatment. I hope you’ll understand. Be assured I’m full of hope and am sustained by the love, support, and encouragement of my family, friends, and of all of you.”

Connolly represents the 11th District in Congress, which includes western Annandale, Burke, Reston, Chantilly, and Newington Forest. He represented a larger portion of the Annandale/Mason District area before a redistricting map was approved for Virginia in 2021.

Connolly chaired the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 2003 to 2009. He represented the Providence District on the BoS from 1995 to 2003.

In Congress, Connolly serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, is a senior member of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability and is the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation.