Virginia Democratic Rep Gerry Connolly dead at 75
Congressman's family announces his peaceful passing at home surrounded by loved ones
By Anders Hagstrom
Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., has passed away following a bitter cancer battle, his family announced on Wednesday.
The lawmaker announced his initial diagnosis with esophageal cancer more than six months ago. He was 75 years old and had stepped back from his roles in Congress at the end of April.
"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.
{snip}
Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., paused a House Rules Committee meeting for a moment of prayer upon learning of Connolly's death.
The longtime congressman's death comes amid a heated battle in Congress over President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill." His death means Democrats have one less vote with which to block the legislation.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/virginia-democratic-rep-gerry-connolly-dead-75