Stunning news on Wednesday morning as Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) has passed away. Connolly was 75 and had been battling esophageal cancer. 

In late April, Connolly announced that he would be stepping back from his leadership role due to health concerns and would not be seeking reelection in 2026 as his cancer had returned. 

READ MORE: Breaking: Rep. Gerry Connolly Announces He's Stepping Back From Leadership Due to Health Issues

Connolly, who is 75, has served in Congress since 2009. Shortly before he was reelected in November 2024, Connolly disclosed that he had been diagnosed with esophageal cancer and would be undergoing chemotherapy and immunotherapy. 

Following his reelection, Connolly faced a challenge from New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D) for the top Democrat position on the House Oversight Committee. However, AOC's bid for that leadership role failed, and Connolly won the contest 131-84.

Connolly's family issued a statement regarding his death:

"It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family," his family announced in a statement.

"Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better. He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just. He was a skilled statesman on the international stage, an accomplished legislator in Congress, a visionary executive on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, a fierce defender of democracy, an environmental champion, and a mentor to so many. But more important than his accomplishments in elected office, Gerry lived by the ethos of ‘bloom where you are planted.’ From the Silver Line to the Oakton Library, Mosaic District to the Cross County Trail and beyond, his legacy now colors our region," the family added.

This is a developing story.