Rep. Gerry Connolly Announces Retirement Amid Cancer Battle

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, announced he will not seek re-election and will step down from his committee leadership due to a recurrence of esophageal cancer. Connolly, who has served in Congress since 2008 and spent over 30 years in public service, expressed pride in his career and gratitude to his constituents and colleagues. The announcement follows his victory over Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for the ranking member role last year, a decision that drew significant attention within the Democratic Party. Political leaders and colleagues from both parties praised Connolly's decades of service, dedication to Virginia, and leadership on issues like federal workforce and transportation. With Connolly stepping down, Rep. Stephen Lynch (D-MA) is expected to assume the ranking member position for now. Connolly's decision marks the end of a significant era of leadership on the House Oversight Committee.