Rep. Gerald “Gerry” Connolly, a Virginia Democrat, has revealed that he was recently diagnosed with esophageal cancer just days after securing another term in office.
In a letter to his constituents, Connolly shared that the diagnosis came as an unexpected “surprise.” He noted that aside from occasional stomach aches, he didn’t have noticeable symptoms. The congressman plans to start chemotherapy and immunotherapy immediately.
“I will attack this the only way I know how – with Irish fight and humor,” he stated, acknowledging that treatment might leave him somewhat fatigued while fulfilling his duties both locally and in Washington, D.C.
A note to my constituents: pic.twitter.com/B1rh43OHoq
— Rep. Gerry Connolly (@GerryConnolly) November 7, 2024
Connolly, currently in his eighth congressional term representing Virginia’s 11th District, has been a prominent figure in northern Virginia politics for around three decades, initially serving as a Fairfax County supervisor.
In the latest election, Connolly secured his ninth House term by defeating Mike Van Meter, a Republican Navy veteran and ex-FBI agent.
“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 wrote. “My wonderful staff and I look forward to serving you all in this new term and in the future. It is a privilege to represent and serve each and every one of you. See you on the hustings.”
Connolly’s victory was crucial for the Democrats, who aim to reclaim the House following President-elect Donald Trump’s landslide victory, as Republicans secured a Senate majority.
The battle for House control requires 218 seats. While neither party reached this target by early Thursday, projections suggested the GOP was leading, holding 213 seats compared to the Democrats’ 199.
