Former Senator Ben Sasse Reveals Experimental Cancer Drug Has Shrunk Tumor by 76%
"I love America, and I think there's a lot of big and meaty things that we should've been talking about."
Ben Sasse, the former U.S. Senator from Nebraska who now serves as president of the University of Florida, has disclosed that he is participating in a clinical trial for an experimental pancreatic cancer drug called daraxonrasib. After being given a life expectancy of just three to four months last December, Sasse reports that the treatment has reduced his tumor volume by 76%.
The Diagnosis and Treatment
Sasse, 54, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that had metastasized to his lungs, liver, and other areas. Following the grim prognosis, he was granted an extension of time due to his enrollment in the experimental drug trial.
In a recent interview with 60 Minutes, Sasse discussed his diagnosis, his political philosophy, and his pointed criticisms of the current state of American politics.
A Critique of Political Dysfunction
Sasse was sharply critical of both major parties, arguing that they lack substantive engagement with long-term challenges such as technological disruption and artificial intelligence.
"The Congress is not wrestling with big or important questions right now."
He asserted that Congress has become fixated on generating soundbites rather than engaging in the deliberative policy-making required to address the nation’s most pressing issues.
"We are living through a digital revolution, which is both glorious and horrific at the same time."
A Legacy of Independence
Sasse served as a Republican senator from Nebraska from 2015 to 2023. He was known for his willingness to break with his party, most notably when he voted to convict Donald Trump during the January 6 impeachment trial.
Senator Mark Warner, reflecting on Sasse’s approach, noted: “He never really thought about things as conservative, liberal. He much more thought about issues as future, past.”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune described Sasse as “somebody who was fearless, passionate... concerned not just for today, but for tomorrow.”
Background: Scholar, Senator, Father
A PhD in American history, Sasse was elected to the Senate in 2014. He was famous for working as a garbageman and vendor during Senate recesses, a practice he maintained to stay connected to everyday Americans. He resigned his seat in 2023 to spend more time with his family.
He and his wife have three children, including a 14-year-old son. Sasse is a member of the Reformed Christian tradition.