The Alliance for American Leadership (A4AL) honors Congressman Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA) as he prepares to retire at the end of his current term, celebrating a distinguished career dedicated to advancing American leadership, safeguarding our democratic institutions, and inspiring the next generation of public servants.

The Alliance for American Leadership (A4AL) — a national coalition of young professionals and foreign policy experts dedicated to revitalizing principled American engagement abroad — includes eight advocates from Congressman Connolly’s district. It was founded by Asher Moss, a former intern in the office of Congressman Connolly, whose commitment to public service was shaped by the Congressman’s example.

Long before his election to Congress, Congressman Connolly earned a reputation as Mr. Foreign Aid during his decade as a staffer on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. 

Describing his time as a Committee staffer for an article in Roll Call, Congressman Connolly said, “The world suddenly just blew apart as I was just beginning my tenure…I had oversight of the entire foreign assistance program and responsibility for writing the annual foreign aid authorization bill. So that gave me a worldwide responsibility, a pretty broad portfolio. I was Mr. Foreign Aid.”

Members of A4AL offered reflections on the personal impact of Congressman Connolly’s leadership:

"Interning for Congressman Connolly was a privilege. His deep commitment to good governance and our democratic institutions was undeniable," said Asher Moss, Executive Director of the Alliance for American Leadership. "I always admired the framed article in his office calling him ‘Mr. Foreign Aid’ — a reminder of how fiercely he fought for American leadership. His example will continue to inspire a generation of advocates, public servants, and leaders who understand that American leadership is not an option; it is a responsibility."
— Asher Moss, former intern for Congressman Connolly, Executive Director of the Alliance for American Leadership

“Congressman Connolly has served Northern Virginia and our nation with unmatched integrity and passion. His relentless commitment to defending democracy and advocating for American leadership as a force of good in the world will leave an enduring legacy for younger generations.”
— Camillo Morales, constituent of Congressman Connolly, A4AL Advisory Board Member

"Representative Connolly has always demonstrated unwavering commitment to American leadership abroad. Over more than a decade in Congress, he consistently championed human rights, democracy, and global health programs. Most recently, he emerged as a leading voice against efforts to dismantle USAID, defending its vital role in promoting development, stability, and U.S. global engagement. His legacy of principled leadership and steadfast dedication to America’s values will be deeply missed."
— Sam Acharya, constituent of Congressman Connolly, A4AL Managing Director

“As my representative, Congressman Connolly made me proud as he always pushed for smart policies that put the human first. His support for agencies like USAID assured me that he had nothing but the best in mind for those in and out of his district.”
— Chris Griffith, constituent of Congressman Connolly, A4AL advocate

As Congressman Connolly concludes a storied career, the Alliance for American Leadership remains committed to upholding the ideals he so faithfully advanced: principled leadership, robust foreign engagement, and a democracy that serves both its citizens and the world.