Long-time Virginia Congressman Gerry Connolly passed away unexpectedly this week. He was a fierce advocate for federal workers, a former chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, and a frequent guest on The Politics Hour. Former U.S. Representative Tom Davis - and the man who held the 11th congressional district seat before Connolly was elected - shared his memories of the congressman.

Connolly had an outsized impact on Fairfax County, from his work on the Board of Supervisors to representing Virginia's largest county in Congress. Virginia State Sen. Dave Marsden, representing parts of Fairfax County, joined the show to discuss Connolly's legacy. Plus, he talked about the commonwealth's financial future amid massive federal cuts and after the U.S. House passed a huge tax and spending bill. He'll also discussed what might be on the docket for next year's legislative session.

A shooting on Wednesday night in front of the Capital Jewish Museum has many community members concerned. Ward 5 D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker discussed how the District is keeping the public safe. Plus, we asked him to weigh in on the RFK stadium deal, the mayor's budget proposal, how the city will prepare for President Trump's massive military parade, and World Pride, which starts this week.

Send us questions and comments for guests: [email protected]

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/wamu885

Follow us on Bluesky: bsky.app/wamu.org