Rep. Gerry Connolly, 75, has died, family statement says

(CNN) — Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia died on Wednesday morning, according to a statement from his family. He was 75.

“It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend, and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family,” the statement said.

Last month, Connolly announced that he would not seek reelection and would soon step down from his leadership position on the powerful House Oversight Committee.

Connolly said at the time that his esophageal cancer — a diagnosis he shared in November — had returned.

“When I announced my diagnosis six months ago, I promised transparency. After grueling treatments, we’ve learned that the cancer, while initially be