Former United States Senator and University of Florida president Ben Sasse, 53, delivered a stark and deeply personal message to the public via social media, revealing a terminal illness.
'Last week I was diagnosed with metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer, and am gonna die,' Sasse wrote in a post on 23 December. He referred to the cancer as 'nasty stuff' and 'a death sentence,' recognising the significant physical and personal hurdles that lie ahead.
The post conveyed a thoughtful and honest perspective, exploring the truths of his prognosis and the state of emotions that he and his family are currently dealing with. He added: 'I'm blessed with amazing siblings and half-a-dozen buddies that are genuinely brothers.'
Sasse particularly emphasised his appreciation for the strong support network he has in his life — his wife, Melissa, and their three children. He thought about the significant milestones his children have reached and the resilience they have all gained from their faith and strong connections in recent years.
More importantly, Sasse acknowledged the progress in medical science, particularly in immunotherapy, and expressed his commitment to exploring available treatments. 'I'm not going down without a fight,' he said. However, he also candidly addressed the reality of his likely limited time remaining.
Friends-
— Ben Sasse (@BenSasse) December 23, 2025
This is a tough note to write, but since a bunch of you have started to suspect something, I’ll cut to the chase: 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.…
Messages of Support Across Politics
Sasse's announcement quickly received a wave of support from political allies and even some opponents, expressing sympathies and prayers. Vice President JD Vance conveyed sympathy, stating: 'I'm very sorry to hear this Ben. May God bless you and your family.'
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson expressed similar emotions: 'The Johnson family is lifting you up in prayer and we trust the Lord will comfort you all. Thank you sharing this message and eternal perspective.'
Meanwhile, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen praised Sasse's determination, asserting that he knew Sasse 'will give his fight against cancer all he's got.'
Several lawmakers from Nebraska, such as Rep Don Bacon and Rep Adrian Smith, expressed sentiments of faith, gratitude, and support, highlighting the personal and political impact of Sasse's announcement in his home state.
Additional messages of support and encouragement for Sasse continue to pour in on X from colleagues, friends, and well-wishers.
I would be more than happy to help 🙏
— William Makis (McGill Medicine) (@MakisMedicine) December 23, 2025
God bless you and your family.
We have had our differences, but I will certainly pray for you, Ben
— Jack Posobiec (@JackPosobiec) December 23, 2025
Senator, I read every word of this incredibly powerful statement twice. I wish we had the chance to serve alongside each other in the Senate and get to know each other, but I’m grateful for your raw, thoughtful, and caring words reminding us of the force of hope and the strength…
— Andy Kim (@AndyKimNJ) December 23, 2025
We always seem to lose the best of us. Ben, your legacy will always be that of a principled conservative with a sharp intellect.
— Dan Crenshaw (@DanCrenshawTX) December 23, 2025
You led with grace and compassion, not anger and divisiveness.
Tara and I are keeping you and your family in our prayers.
Thank you for your faithful witness in life and in dying. St. Thérèse of Lisieux prayed for a martyr’s death as the greatest gift to God in death, but the clear faithful confidence you articulated about your journey is also great gift to Him and all who are blessed to read this.…
— Rick Santorum (@RickSantorum) December 23, 2025
Your leadership and friendship to the Jewish community will never be forgotten.
— StopAntisemitism (@StopAntisemites) December 23, 2025
You and your family are in our prayers - NEVER lose hope as miracles happen daily.
Journey Through Public Service
Benjamin Eric Sasse, born in 1972 in Plainview, Nebraska, has navigated a diverse career that encompasses politics, academia, and public service. He has earned degrees from prestigious institutions, including Harvard, St John's College, and Yale University, where he also completed his PhD.
Sasse gained national attention as a Republican US Senator representing Nebraska, holding office from 2015 until his resignation in 2023. Throughout his time in office, he gained recognition for his occasionally opposing views within his party. He is notably one of the Republicans who chose to convict President Donald Trump during the second impeachment trial after the events of 6 January 2021 at the Capitol.
In 2023, Sasse took on the presidency of the University of Florida, a position he maintained until mid‑2024. He stepped down from the role to focus more on his family, especially following his wife's epilepsy diagnosis. He maintained his academic contributions as a professor even after his resignation.
The Reality of Stage 4 Cancer
Stage 4 cancer, often referred to as advanced or metastatic cancer, signifies that the illness has disseminated from its initial location to various other areas of the body. In Sasse's case, pancreatic cancer has spread beyond the pancreas, indicating it has affected distant organs or tissues.
Stage 4 cancer is recognised as the most advanced form, often linked to a less favourable prognosis and fewer curative options. However, there are still treatments available that focus on slowing progression and managing symptoms to enhance quality of life. Pancreatic cancer is particularly known for being detected late and showing a relative resistance to early treatment, which contributes to its high mortality rate in metastatic cases.
