Former Senator Ben Sasse Diagnosed with Terminal Cancer

Former Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse, once a prominent figure within the Republican Party, has announced he is battling terminal, metastatic pancreatic cancer at the age of 53. His recent diagnosis has led to an outpouring of support and condolences from both political allies and opponents.

Diagnosis Announcement

In a heartfelt post on social media platform X, Sasse revealed his condition, stating:

“Last week I was diagnosed with metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer, and am gonna die. Advanced pancreatic is nasty stuff; it’s a death sentence. But I already had a death sentence before last week too — we all do."

This form of cancer is notorious for its low survival rates and rapid progression.

Personal Reflection

Sasse took the opportunity to reflect on his family life, mentioning the significance of his three decades of marriage and his three children. He expressed gratitude for the time spent with them:

“I couldn’t be more grateful to constantly get to bear-hug this motley crew of sinners and saints.”

As the holiday season approaches, he acknowledged the timing of his announcement but emphasized the importance of confronting reality:

“A well-lived life demands more reality — stiffer stuff. That’s why, during advent, even while still walking in darkness, we shout our hope.”

Career Highlights

Ben Sasse entered the Senate in 2014 during a Republican wave election. He was previously the president of Midland University and holds a doctorate in history from Yale University.

Key Political Stances

• Critique of Donald Trump: Sasse was known for speaking against former President Trump, calling some of his actions “the stuff of dictators” and criticizing his handling of issues like immigration.
• January 6 Capitol Riot: Following the Capitol riots, Sasse took a principled stance and voted to convict Trump during the impeachment trial, a decision that placed him at odds with many in his party.

Transition to Academia

In 2023, Sasse resigned from his Senate seat to become the president of the University of Florida. His tenure was marred by ethical concerns regarding financial management and staffing practices, leading to an investigation by Florida’s auditor general.

Community Response

Since the announcement of his illness, Sasse has received heartfelt messages from across the political spectrum:

• Senator Mike Lee expressed his heartbreak, stating, "You’re such a good husband, father, and person, and this world is a better place because you’re in it."
• Senator Jeff Flake shared his sympathy, wishing Sasse and his family comfort during this challenging time.
• Former President Obama’s speechwriter, Tommy Vietor, praised Sasse’s message, calling it "inspiring."

Conclusion

Ben Sasse’s battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer serves as a reminder of life’s frailty and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones. His political legacy remains complex, marked by principled stands and controversial decisions. As condolences continue to pour in, the impact of his leadership and character resonates beyond party lines.

For more information on pancreatic cancer, visit Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. For a deeper dive into Sasse’s political career and legacy, check out Politico’s coverage.