House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, a Republican representing the 1st Congressional District of Louisiana, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of blood cancer Saturday, according to the office of Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.
In a statement to the nation, Pelosi said she was “deeply saddened by the news” of Scalise’s diagnosis and offered her prayers and best wishes as Scalise begins “the difficult road ahead.” Scalise has been House Majority Leader since 2019.
According to Dr. S. Robson, the oncologist treating Scalise, the Louisiana congressman was diagnosed with “a particular type of cancer that arises from the cells that make up the white blood cells in the bone marrow.”
Dr. Robson went on to explain that Scalise was in good health prior to the diagnosis and that his “excellent physical condition” gave him a better chance at long-term remission. “We are working closely with the team at the Medstar Georgetown University Medical Center to ensure Mr. Scalise receives the most effective treatment plan possible,” said Dr. Robson. Scalise is scheduled to undergo chemotherapy treatment in the coming weeks.
Since his diagnosis, Scalise has received an overwhelming show of support from both parties in Congress. Senator Joe Manchin, a Democrat from West Virginia, said he and Scalise have had “vigorous and respectful disagreements, but now we all stand united in sending prayers and wishing for a recovery.”
In a written statement, Scalise thanked his fellow members of Congress for their “thoughts and prayers” and vowed to “fight this battle and come out stronger than ever.” He added that he is determined to beat the disease and continue to serve his constituents “with the same passionate fight.”
Scalise’s diagnosis has caused members of Congress to pause and reflect on the importance of prioritizing their own health. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, who said he was “devastated” by the news, called on members to “prioritize their physical and mental health and to make sure they take the time to get checked out.”
The news of Scalise’s diagnosis has shaken the political community, but it has also served as a reminder that even in times of deeply divided politics, we can still come together in times of need. It is our wish that the House Majority Leader be able to fight through his illness and return to Congress soon.
