Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA11, who has served Northern Virginia for nearly 20 years in the U.S. House, announced Monday he will not seek reelection in 2026.
In a message to supporters, Connolly said he will also step down as the ranking member of the powerful House Oversight Committee.
“After grueling treatments, we’ve learned that the cancer, while initially beaten back, has now returned,” Connolly wrote in the statement, disclosing the health battle that shaped his decision.
First elected to Congress in 2008, Connolly built his career advocating for federal workers and expanding public transportation in one of Virginia’s fastest-growing regions. Before that, he served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for more than a decade, including as chairman.
His departure marks the end of an era for Virginia’s 11th District — and opens the door to a wide-open race in 2026.
While Virginia’s 11th District leans heavily Democratic, Connolly’s exit could invite a wide-open primary battle among ambitious local leaders eager to succeed him.
“The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress,” Connolly said. “With no rancor and a full heart, I move into this final chapter full of pride in what we’ve accomplished together over 30 years.”
