Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer

TL/DR –

Texas Representative Sheila Jackson Lee has announced that she has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is currently undergoing treatment. Despite the diagnosis, she has stated her commitment to continue working with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on legislation crucial to the American people, although she may occasionally miss legislative votes due to her treatments. Rep. Jackson Lee, who has served in Congress for around 30 years, also recently reintroduced the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

Sheila Jackson Lee Diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer

Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, has revealed her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. “My doctors have confirmed my diagnosis of pancreatic cancer,” said the 74-year-old representative in a statement. She is currently receiving treatment for this disease, which affects tens of thousands of Americans annually.

Due to her treatments, Jackson Lee may occasionally miss legislative votes. However, she remains committed to collaborating with House Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on critical legislation for American prosperity and security. In her statement, Jackson Lee expressed faith in her treatment plan and determination to fight the illness.

Representing Texas’ 18th District

Sheila Jackson Lee represents Texas’ 18th District, encompassing parts of Houston. She recently won a primary election to regain her seat following an unsuccessful mayoral bid last year. As a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, she has served in Congress for approximately 30 years, recently reintroducing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

Advocate for Public Education

On top of her duties with the Judiciary and Homeland Security committees, Jackson Lee advocates for public education. She called for an investigation into the takeover of Houston’s Independent School District by the education department’s Office for Civil Rights.

Jackson Lee suggested this overhaul of the nation’s eighth-largest district could have racial implications. She said, “This is not helping our families or our children…” and pledged to work for the reinstatement of an elected board and governance involving parents and teachers.

Over 80% of HISD students are Black and Hispanic, according to school district data. Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.

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