Following a unanimous decision by the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA) Bureau, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly has been elected Acting President of the Assembly to fulfill the remainder of the 2024 presidential term. Former President Michal Szczerba’s term came to an end following his election to the European Parliament. Connolly’s appointment comes just weeks ahead of the NATO Parliamentary Leaders Summit and NATO Summit, both being hosted in Washington, D.C. the week of July 8.

“With war raging in Europe and our shared democratic values under attack, this is a pivotal moment for the Alliance. NATO Parliamentary Assembly has an important role to play in shaping the future of transatlantic security,” said Connolly. “I want to thank Michal Szczerba for his service and his friendship over the years, and my deepest gratitude goes to our colleagues for once again trusting me to lead this vital organization.”

Connolly has been a member of NATO Parliamentary Assembly since 2013 and served as President from November 2020 to November 2022. He currently is a member of the Political Committee and a Vice-Chairperson of its Sub-Committee on NATO Partnerships.

Connolly is the US Representative for Virginia’s 11th District. He was first elected to the United States House of Representatives in 2008. From 1989 to 1997, he was Vice President of the Washington Office of SRI International. He was also Director of Community Relations for SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation). He served 14 years on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, including five years as Chairman.