Pennsylvania Rep. Thompson diagnosed with cancer

Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.) announced Tuesday he was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, adding that he plans on continuing to represent his district in Pennsylvania.

“After a routine physical and subsequent tests, I was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer,” Thompson wrote in a statement posted to X, formerly known as Twitter. “While this diagnosis was a surprise, I feel well, and I will continue my work representing the people of Pennsylvania’s 15th District.”

“Anyone who’s worked with me knows I am a person of faith as well as an eternal optimist, both of which will guide me as I undergo treatment,” Thompson added. “I am grateful to my medical team, my family, everyone I work with and represent in Congress.”

Thompson, 64, said he will “tackle this head on” and appreciates the prayers and privacy during this time.

He appears to still be running for reelection in 2024 in the wake of the diagnosis, according to his campaign website. Thompson’s district covers parts of western and central Pennsylvania, home to more than 764,800 people.

Thompson was first elected to the U.S. House in 2008 and currently serves as chair of the House Agriculture Committee, as well as on the Committee on Education and the Workforce.

He previously spent 28 years as a therapist, rehabilitation services manager and a licensed nursing home administrator. He also served as a volunteer firefighter, his office said.

He received a bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University and, later, a Master of Education from Temple University in Philadelphia. He and his wife, Penny Ammerman-Thompson, reside in Howard, Pa., and have three adult sons: Parker, Logan and Kale.