In a candid X post, former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse revealed that he has been diagnosed with metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer.
Diagnosis Announcement
Sasse wrote that he learned of the diagnosis last week and described it as a “death sentence.” He added, “Last week I was diagnosed with metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer, and am gonna die.” The senator did not provide further medical details in the post.
Personal Reflections
In the same post, Sasse reflected on the severity of advanced pancreatic cancer. He stated, “Advanced pancreatic is nasty stuff; it’s a death sentence. But I already had a death sentence before last week too – we all do.” The senator emphasized the personal toll of the diagnosis.
Family Support
Sasse noted that the situation is especially difficult for someone who has spent his career working and building. He wrote, “This is hard for someone wired to work and build, but harder still as a husband and a dad,” and praised his wife and three children for their support.
Career Overview
Sasse served as Nebraska’s U.S. Senator from 2015 until early January 2023. He resigned from the Senate to become president of the University of Florida. His tenure at the university ended the following year amid his wife’s struggles with epilepsy and memory issues.
University Presidency
During his time at the University of Florida, Sasse focused on expanding the institution’s research initiatives. He stepped down in 2024, citing personal reasons related to his wife’s health. The university announced his resignation publicly, noting his contributions to the campus community.
Political Legacy
Sasse is known as a staunch conservative and self-described “constitutional warrior.” He was one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict former President Donald Trump in the second impeachment trial. Trump was ultimately acquitted.
Impeachment Vote Details
The vote on Trump’s second impeachment was held in 2021. Sasse, along with six other Republicans, cast a conviction vote. The decision was a significant moment in the Senate’s handling of the former president’s conduct.
Current Senate Composition
After the impeachment trial, only three Republican senators-Maine’s Susan Collins, Alaska’s Lisa Murkowski, and Louisiana’s Bill Cassidy-remain in the Senate. The rest of the Republican caucus has moved to other positions.
Sasse’s Future Statements
In a follow-up X post, Sasse wrote, “I’ll have more to say. I’m not going down without a fight.” He also mentioned, “One sub-part of God’s grace is found in the jawdropping advances science has made the past few years in immunotherapy and more.”
On Death and Dying
Sasse commented that “Death and dying aren’t the same – the process of dying is still something to be lived.” He acknowledged the emotional complexity of confronting a terminal illness.
Immunotherapy Mention
The senator referenced recent advances in immunotherapy as a source of hope. He noted that scientific progress over the past few years has brought new treatment options, even for aggressive cancers.
Closing Reflection
Sasse concluded his posts by expressing gratitude for his family’s support and a determination to face the diagnosis with resilience. He emphasized that he will continue to engage with his political and personal commitments as best as possible.
Key Takeaways
- Former Senator Ben Sasse announced a stage-four pancreatic cancer diagnosis on X.
- He described the condition as a “death sentence” and reflected on personal and familial impacts.
- Sasse’s political career includes a Senate term (2015-2023) and a presidency at the University of Florida, which ended due to his wife’s health issues.
The announcement marks a significant moment for the former Nebraska senator, who has faced both political challenges and personal hardships in recent years.
