Gerry Connolly (D-Virginia) on Wednesday, remembering the 75-year-old Democrat as a steward of civic improvements in Fairfax County and a fiery champion of federal workers. Connolly announced his diagnosis of esophageal cancer last fall shortly after winning a ninth term,

The long-time representative from Northern Virginia has died at 75 following a battle with cancer. He is being remembered for his advocacy of federal workers and the contractor community as well as championing initiatives to improve how the government buys goods and services.

Eight elected officials from Fairfax have voiced support for one of the three Democrats running for the 11th District seat in Congress.