Indian American lawmakers at both the federal and state levels have expressed their condolences following the passing of former U.S. Congressman Gerry Connolly, who represented Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. Connolly died of esophageal cancer at his home in Northern Virginia on May 21, 2025.

In a statement, Connolly’s family said he passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones. “He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just,” the statement read. “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.”

Offering her condolences, Maryland Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller, told South Asian Herald, “My heartfelt condolences go out to Congressman Gerry Connolly’s family and to the people of Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. Congressman Connolly was a champion of the federal workforce, and his service will have lasting impact on both his district and the nation.”

Rep. Suhas Subramanyam called Connolly a mentor and a friend. “Gerry was a colleague, a mentor, and above all, my friend. His humor, his toughness, and his love for his community and country made him one of the most effective members of Congress,” he said.

Reflecting on Connolly’s long-standing service to Fairfax County and Northern Virginia, Subramanyam described him as the epitome of a “selfless statesman,” who impacted countless lives and uplifted vulnerable communities.

“He was a lion of Northern Virginia politics and always a sounding board and partner on the campaign trail,” Subramanyam added. “In recent months, his mentorship helped me transition into Congress and onto the Oversight Committee, a committee where his years of leadership has improved the lives of countless federal workers and Northern Virginia families.”

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi described Connolly as a “friend and colleague,” adding, “Gerry was a tireless champion of effective oversight, a brilliant legislator, and a cherished presence in the House.” He said his thoughts are with Connolly’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my colleague Rep. Gerry Connolly. He was a passionate public servant who always fought for his constituents. My condolences go out to his friends and family during this hard time,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. 

Rep. Shri Thanedar echoed the sentiment, calling Connolly a “passionate public servant” who will be deeply missed. “My heart is with his family and the constituents of Virginia’s 11th during this challenging time,” he said.

Rep. Ami Bera, who served with Connolly on the House Foreign Affairs Committee for 12 years, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his friend and colleague. He described Connolly as a “true statesman” and praised his principled leadership.

“He brought principle, wit and conviction to every debate, and was a fierce fighter for the cause of freedom and democracy both at home and abroad. His leadership made our nation and the world a better place. My prayers are with his loved ones and all who had the privilege of knowing him,” Bera said.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal also paid tribute, calling Connolly a “champion” for his district and a leader within the Democratic Party. “My heart goes out to his loved ones and constituents,” she said.

State-level leaders in Virginia honor Connolly’s legacy

State Senator Ghazala Hashmi, a candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, said she was “heartbroken” by the news.

“My thoughts are with the Connolly family at this moment of tragic loss. The Congressman was a tireless fighter for our Commonwealth; he stood first and always for the Virginia he loved,” she said.

State Senator Kannan Srinivasan described Connolly as a “true giant,” stating, “His devout service, principled leadership, & love for community set the standard for public service.” 

State Senator Saddam Salim, a Bangladeshi American, said Connolly embodied everything an elected official should be “sincere, knowledgeable, and fierce” in his defense of justice, equality, and the rule of law.

“After 40 years of public service, his legacy will be an inspiration to Fairfax County for many generations to come,” Salim said. “I was fortunate to have the opportunity to speak to him when I was deciding whether to run for office, and his mentorship at that moment meant the world to me.”

Virginia House Delegate JJ Singh noted, “Congressman Connolly’s decades of public service and legacy of accomplishment will live on.”

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