Washington, December 24, 2025 – Ben Sasse, former Republican Senator from Nebraska (2015-2023) and current President of the University of Florida, announced on Tuesday, December 23, via X that he has been diagnosed with metastatic stage 4 pancreatic cancer, a condition generally associated with a very poor prognosis.
In a direct and emotional message, the 53-year-old politician wrote: “Friends – 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.”
Ben Sasse, known for his moderately conservative positions and occasional criticisms of Donald Trump, resigned from the Senate in January 2023 to take the presidency of the University of Florida. Father of three children with his wife Melissa, he was appreciated for his intellectual style and straightforward manner.
Metastatic stage 4 pancreatic cancer typically offers a prognosis limited to a few months, even with aggressive treatments. Sasse did not specify his treatment intentions, but his message suggests a lucid acceptance.
Reactions are pouring in from across the political spectrum: bipartisan tributes from fellow senators, messages of support from the University of Florida, and prayers on social media. The Republican community, like Democrats, expresses shock and sadness as Christmas approaches.
Ben Sasse remains a respected figure for his educational and political commitment. His family has requested respect for their privacy during this ordeal.