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Gerry Connolly was a doctrinaire Democrat in a safe seat. He had a big bag of policy positions that I was fighting against vigorously at the time. Out of the blue, a child who was medically endangered and at grave risk was met with an adverse decision by one of our notoriously self-serving institutions. The world I was raised in taught me that one of the most important cards in our hands is the ability to petition our representatives in moments of grave need for assistance and redress. I made a call to Rep. Connolly's office and a favorable reversal was effectuated by the representative's direct intercession. Constituent service at its absolute best.
Rep. Connolly is likely the reason that that child lives today, enjoying a comfortable life in spite of daunting challenges. I am a father first, and the Lord put wonderful children in my charge. In that moment I would have begged Stalin himself on any of their behalf. Rep. Connolly passed on on May 21, but I only just became aware. Rest in peace, sir. We disagreed on nearly everything except the one thing that mattered most. May the Lord have mercy on all of our souls. Rest in peace, Gerry.
Discussion (5)
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What an amazing and touching story! People surprise us sometimes, thank G-d. And bless you for contacting his office.
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Any humane act, even by an adversary, is worthy of praise. I praise you as well, Sisyphus! Your humanity is what started the ball rolling.
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Constituent service is job one. It is why competent incumbents who understand that are hard to beat.
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As a constituent, I have a decidedly different view. But it’s clear that Connelly has touched your life, and that of a young person, so full credit and thanks for this remembrance.
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Agree. I knew of someone who was all but physically attacked by Connolly (at the time he was head of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors) so no love for the man. But if he did the right thing in this case, I am happy to hear it.