Hoyer Statement on Rep. Gerry Connolly

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) issued the following statement after Congressman Gerry Connolly (VA-11) announced that he will not run for re-election in 2026:

"From standing up for his constituents in Virginia's Eleventh Congressional District to battling his cancer diagnosis, my dear friend Rep. Gerry Connolly has always been a fighter. I am deeply saddened to hear that his cancer has returned and that his extraordinary service in the House of Representatives will conclude at the end of the 119th Congress. I know that he will continue to fight his illness with the same courage, grit, and perseverance with which he tackles every challenge. 

"Serving alongside Gerry these past 16 years has been a great privilege. One of Maryland's neighbors across the Potomac, Gerry and I have worked together on numerous issues facing our region and our people. We have stood up for our federal workers, ensuring they receive the pay, benefits, fair treatment, and respect they deserve. That mission has never been more important than it is today, with the Trump Administration orchestrating an illegal purge of these patriots and trying to dismantle the vital services they provide to the American people every day. Throughout his time in Congress, Gerry has also been a crucial member and leader of the House Oversight Committee. He has held both Republican and Democratic administrations accountable and helped get Americans the answers they deserve. 

"I also admire Gerry's efforts to strengthen our NATO alliance, including as President of the alliance's Parliamentary Assembly. I have been proud to work with him to reaffirm America's commitment to our mutual defense obligations under Article V and to countering Russian aggression in Ukraine and beyond.

"Gerry has earned the love and respect of so many here on Capitol Hill. I will miss his honesty, leadership, intellect, humor, and – crucially – his character. His departure at the end of the 119th will be a great loss for our Congress and country."