Today, James Comer, Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, spoke on the House floor to honor Ranking Member Gerald Connolly's dedication to public service. Comer also urged support for H.R. 3094, the Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act of 2025. He highlighted Connolly's battle with esophageal cancer, a rapidly growing and deadly disease in America.
The bipartisan bill was initially introduced as the Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act by Connolly and Comer in May. It aims to address the impact of esophageal cancer and promote research into preventive treatments.
In his remarks, Chairman Comer stated: "The House of Representatives has lost a true statesman." He described Connolly as "a father, a husband, friend, and a lifelong public servant that dedicated his life to his constituents, his community, and his Country."
Comer expressed sorrow over Connolly's passing: "I was deeply saddened to hear about his sudden passing." He recounted Connolly's service from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to 16 years in Congress representing Virginia’s 11th Congressional District.
Comer praised Connolly's commitment to bipartisanship: "He was steadfast in fighting for what he believed in. But he was always committed to bipartisanship where he thought we could agree." They cosponsored eight bills together during their time on the committee.
Comer extended condolences: "I would like to extend my condolences to his family, and also to the members of his staff." He noted that esophageal cancer symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed, leading to late detection and limited treatment options.
Through this legislation, Comer hopes to raise awareness about esophageal cancer: "Through this legislation, we hope to raise awareness about esophageal cancer to improve the odds for those who contract this disease."
The Oversight Committee has passed the bipartisan Gerald E. Connolly Esophageal Cancer Awareness Act.
