Overview

• Rep. Gerry Connolly, who has represented Virginia’s 11th District since 2009, revealed that his esophageal cancer has returned after initial treatments.
• Connolly, 75, announced he will not run for reelection in 2026 and will step down as the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee in the near future.
• His decision comes after a three-decade career in public service, including leadership on government oversight, technology reform, and federal transparency.
• In December, Connolly defeated Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in a caucus vote for the Oversight Committee leadership, highlighting generational tensions within the Democratic Party.
• Rep. Stephen Lynch is expected to serve as interim ranking member of the Oversight Committee following Connolly’s departure.