High-Ranking Dem Rep Is OUT After Sharing Devastating News
Democrats' chances of reclaiming control of the U.S. House were dealt a blow when a prominent party member announced he would not seek reelection, following a recent cancer diagnosis.
Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), age 75, disclosed in a letter to supporters that he had been grappling with the difficult choice of whether to continue his political career, given his health and the stakes for the Democratic Party’s efforts to retake Congress.
“Your outpouring of love and support has given me strength in my fights – both against cancer and in our collective defense of democracy,” Connolly expressed in the letter, which was addressed to “friends.”
He continued, “When I announced my diagnosis six months ago, I promised transparency. After grueling treatments, we’ve learned that the cancer, while initially beaten back, has now returned. I’ll do everything possible to continue to represent you and thank you for your grace. The sun is setting on my time in public service, and this will be my last term in Congress. I will be stepping back as Ranking Member of the Oversight Committee.”
Despite Connolly’s retirement, his congressional seat may not offer Republicans an easy opportunity. Virginia’s 11th Congressional District leans heavily Democratic—rated D+18 by the Cook Political Report—and Connolly has historically secured about two-thirds of the vote in Fairfax County, a suburban stronghold near Washington, D.C.
Nonetheless, under Governor Glenn Youngkin, Virginia Republicans have gained political ground post-pandemic and are expected to nominate a strong contender. This could compel the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to invest significantly to retain a district that may otherwise have required minimal attention.
Demographic changes could also play a role. The Trump administration’s layoffs of federal workers prompted a wave of relocations and house sales in the D.C. area. A Republican hopeful might tap into this shifting voter base.
Political experts remain divided on which party is poised to win the House in 2026. According to 270 to Win, Republicans are projected to secure 208 seats consistently, while Democrats are expected to claim 205, leaving 22 districts as toss-ups. Polls using generic ballots generally lean in favor of Democrats.
Meanwhile, other Democratic lawmakers are eyeing new opportunities rather than retirement. Following Sen. Gary Peters’ (D-MI) decision to step down, Reps. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI) and Angie Craig (D-MN) are both reportedly exploring campaigns for Minnesota’s open Senate seat, as reported by Punchbowl News.