FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 21, 2025
May 21, 2025
Contact:
Tim Kauffman
202-374-6491
[email protected]
AFGE Statement on the Passing of Rep. Gerry Connolly
Lawmaker championed the rights and well-being of federal workers during his years of service.
WASHINGTON – American Federation of Government Employees National President Everett Kelley today issued the following statement in response to the passing of Rep. Gerry Connolly from Northern Virginia:
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Representative Gerry Connolly. His unwavering commitment to public service and steadfast advocacy for federal employees have left an indelible mark on our nation.
"Throughout his tenure in Congress, Gerry Connolly championed the rights and well-being of federal workers. His leadership in introducing and supporting legislation like the Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act demonstrated his dedication to ensuring fair compensation for those who serve our country. Rep. Connolly also was a vocal opponent of policies that threatened the integrity of the civil service, sponsoring bipartisan legislation to protect the civil service from politicization. He stood firmly against initiatives that aimed to undermine the merit-based system, recognizing the importance of a nonpartisan and effective federal workforce.
"His passing is not only a loss to those who knew him personally but also to the countless federal employees and citizens who benefited from his tireless work. On behalf of AFGE and the 820,000 federal and D.C. government employees we represent, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and constituents. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our ongoing efforts to advocate for the rights and dignity of all federal workers."
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