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Rep. Gerry Connolly Reveals Cancer Battle Following Recent Election Victory
RICHMOND, Va. — U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly, a Democrat who serves Virginia’s most populous county, announced on Thursday that he is currently facing a diagnosis of esophageal cancer.
The congressman, 74, made this revelation shortly after winning his ninth consecutive term in the House of Representatives, defeating Republican challenger Mike Van Meter, a Navy veteran and former FBI agent, in Virginia’s 11th District.
In a statement, Connolly expressed his determination to confront this health challenge, stating, “I will attack this the only way I know how – with Irish fight and humor.”
As he embarks on this new term representing Fairfax County and its affluent suburbs adjacent to Washington, Connolly confirmed that he will undergo both chemotherapy and immunotherapy. He noted that aside from occasional abdominal discomfort, he had been asymptomatic prior to this diagnosis.
“My wonderful staff and I look forward to serving you all in this new term and in the future,” Connolly added, signaling his commitment to continue his legislative work amid his health battle.
Connolly has been a prominent figure in northern Virginia politics for nearly three decades, first taking office as a Fairfax County supervisor in 1995. His role in Congress has been marked by significant efforts in oversight investigations, highlighting his engagement in critical political issues.
The congressman’s journey has included notable challenges, including a serious incident last year when a man with a documented history of mental illness attacked staff members at Connolly’s Fairfax office with a baseball bat, aiming to harm him. Fortunately, Connolly was not present during the attack. The assailant was later found not guilty by reason of insanity.
This latest health development has prompted outpourings of support from constituents and colleagues alike, underlining the concern for both his health and the effectiveness of his representation in Congress as he navigates this personal ordeal.
Olivia Diaz is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
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abcnews.go.com