U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston, is undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer, the congresswoman shared in a statement on social media platform X on Sunday.
“My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer,” said Jackson Lee. “I am currently undergoing treatment to combat this disease that affects tens of thousands of Americans every year.”
Jackson Lee, 74, represents Congressional District 18, a seat she has held for 30 years. In March, she defeated challenger Amanda Edwards, a former Houston city councilwoman, in the most competitive primary of her congressional career. Prior to the March primary, Jackson Lee had drawn only four primary challengers, and she defeated them all by significant margins. She has been in Congress since 1995.
In her statement, Jackson Lee said she “will likely be absent from Congress from time to time” while she undergoes treatment, but that she plans to continue serving her constituents with the services they “deserve and expect.”
“I am committed to working with our Congressional leadership, including Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of House, to serve this nation and be present for votes on legislation critical to the prosperity and security of the American people.” , the statement said.
Jackson Lee previously battled breast cancer. In 2012, she announced that she was cancer-free after being diagnosed the previous year.
“I look forward to many more years of enjoying my family and friends and serving our community and nation,” she said at the time.
Jackson Lee was born in Queens, New York and served as a judge before being elected to an at-large seat on the Houston City Council in 1989. Since then, she has become a household name in Houston, Texas’ largest city and the fourth largest in Texas. populated in the country.
Last year, Jackson Lee ran an unsuccessful campaign for mayor of Houston. She lost to then-Senator John Whitmire by a wide margin and then promptly announced that she would seek re-election to Congress.
Jackson Lee received an outpouring of support on X following her evening announcement.
“Some things are bigger than politics,” read a message from the Harris County GOP. “Please join us in praying for Congresswoman Jackson Lee and her loved ones during this difficult time as we wish her a speedy recovery.”
It is currently unclear where Jackson Lee is being treated.
“I am confident that my doctors have developed the best possible plan to address my specific disease,” she said. “The road ahead will not be easy, but I have faith that God will strengthen me.”
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