Former Senator Ben Sasse Faces Metastatic Cancer Diagnosis

The 54-year-old former Nebraska senator opens up about his Stage 4 pancreatic cancer battle.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:23pm

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Ben Sasse, a former U.S. senator from Nebraska who served from 2015 to 2023, has been diagnosed with metastatic Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Sasse, now 54 years old, has been open about his diagnosis and impending death, speaking frankly about his condition and treatment at the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.

Why it matters

Sasse's public approach to his terminal illness sheds light on how a prominent public figure can choose to face death with dignity and transparency. His willingness to share his story may inspire others dealing with similar health challenges.

The details

Sasse has been receiving targeted treatment, including 55 milligrams of morphine per day to alleviate the pain from tumors pressing against his spine. He is currently participating in a clinical trial for a drug called Daraxonrasib as part of his weekly treatment regimen at MD Anderson.

  • Sasse tweeted about his Stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis in late December 2025.
  • Sasse has been receiving weekly treatments at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston since his diagnosis.

The players

Ben Sasse

A former U.S. senator from Nebraska who served from 2015 to 2023, and is now 54 years old and battling metastatic Stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

MD Anderson Cancer Center

A renowned cancer hospital in Houston, Texas, where Sasse is receiving his targeted cancer treatment.

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What they’re saying

“I have some tumors that press against my spine, so I wouldn't be able to eat anything, according to my doctors, if they didn't take that pressure away.”

— Ben Sasse (Wall Street Journal)

What’s next

Sasse's doctors at MD Anderson will continue to monitor his condition and adjust his treatment plan as needed. The outcome of the clinical trial for the drug Daraxonrasib may also provide important insights into potential new treatment options for metastatic pancreatic cancer.

The takeaway

Sasse's openness about his terminal illness and willingness to share his story publicly serves as an inspiring example of how a prominent public figure can approach the end of life with dignity, grace, and a desire to make his remaining time 'useful' for others facing similar challenges.