Gerry Connolly was a man of deep integrity, principle, and purpose. He was a dear friend, a fierce leader for working families, and someone I was proud to partner with throughout our careers. When I served on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Gerry was a key member of our team for a decade starting in 1979. Later, he was elected to Congress himself, and when I was president, Gerry and I worked together to pass consequential legislation, including the American Rescue Plan and efforts to prevent veteran suicide and support our nation's first responders. The people of Virginia’s 11th Congressional District were lucky to have Gerry Connolly as their champion for so many years. I know his legacy of public service will endure. Jill and I are sending love and strength to his wife Smitty, their daughter Caitlin, and the entire Connolly family.