Two days after being re-elected, Virginia Rep. Gerald “Jerry” Connolly announced that he has esophageal cancer.
In an “open letter to voters”, Mr Connolly called his diagnosis a “surprise” after learning of it “a few days ago”, adding that he had no symptoms apart from “intermittent abdominal pains and pains”.
The politician said he would begin chemotherapy and immunotherapy immediately.
“I'm going to attack this issue the only way I know how, with Irish fight and good humor,” he said, adding that while he was working in his constituency and on Parliament Hill, he was “a bit off due to medical treatment.” He might be tired,” he added.
Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Virginia, testifies about former President Donald Trump's assassination attempt before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee during a campaign event at the Pennsylvania State Capitol on Monday, July Ask the Director a question. 22, 2024, Washington, DC (AP Photo/Rod Lambkey Jr.)
He said Connolly is currently serving his eighth term in the U.S. House of Representatives from Virginia's 11th District. Online biography. His district is centered around Fairfax County and includes wealthy suburbs outside the capital.
The 74-year-old won a ninth term in the House of Representatives, defeating Republican Mike Van Meter, a Navy veteran and former FBI agent.
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Congressman Gerry Connolly represents Virginia's 11th District. (Connolly. House. Gob)
Mr. Connolly has been a fixture in Northern Virginia politics for nearly 30 years. He was first elected as Fairfax County Supervisor in 1995 and has played a leading role in oversight investigations in the Legislature.
Republicans currently hold a majority in the Senate, but the House is currently deeply divided and continues to await further election results.
Mr. Connolly gestures during a House Oversight and Reform Committee hearing on “Legislative Proposals to Place the United States Postal Service on a Sustainable Financial Footing'' at the Capitol on February 24, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Graham Jennings/Pool, via Reuters)
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“I am full of hope and buoyed by the love, support and encouragement of my family, friends and all of you,” Connolly said in the letter. “My wonderful staff and I look forward to serving you in this new term and in the future. It is an honor to represent and serve each and every one of you. We look forward to seeing you at the gathering.”
FOX News' Chad Pergram and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
