Today, James Comer, Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, paid tribute to the late Gerald Connolly, Ranking Member and a longtime public servant. In his remarks on the House floor, Comer commemorated Connolly’s dedication to service and urged support for H.R. 3094, known as the Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act of 2025.
Chairman Comer highlighted Connolly’s battle with esophageal cancer, noting its status as one of the deadliest and fastest-growing cancers in America. He expressed pride in cosponsoring this significant legislation alongside Connolly. Originally introduced in May by both Connolly and Comer as the Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act, the bill aims to spotlight the severe impact of esophageal cancer and foster research into preventive treatments.
In his prepared remarks, Comer described Gerry Connolly as a true statesman who dedicated his life to public service. “Gerry Connolly was a father, a husband, friend, and a lifelong public servant that dedicated his life to his constituents, his community, and his Country,” said Comer.
Connolly’s career spanned from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to 16 years in the U.S. House of Representatives representing Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. Comer noted Connolly’s commitment to bipartisanship and mentioned their collaboration on eight bills together.
Expressing condolences to Connolly’s family and staff after his passing due to esophageal cancer, Comer emphasized the importance of raising awareness about this disease through the proposed legislation. “Through this legislation, we hope to raise awareness about esophageal cancer to improve the odds for those who contract this disease,” he stated.
The bipartisan Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act has been passed by the Oversight Committee.
