Former Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse, who was diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer late last year, recently spoke with CBS News about his perspectives on America's future and the current state of governance.

Sasse, who left the Senate in 2022 to become president of the University of Florida before stepping down due to his illness, described his terminal diagnosis as "an opportunity to talk about bigger stuff." He is receiving treatment with a promising new drug that has provided him additional time.

In an extended interview with CBS News' 60 Minutes that aired on April 26, 2026, Sasse reflected on where America has been and where it could still go. He emphasized the importance of faith, community and family in shaping the nation's trajectory.

Sasse also criticized what he called the "smack-down nonsense" in the Senate and discussed why he believes Congress has become dysfunctional. During the interview, he addressed both the promises and risks of artificial intelligence technology.

The former senator used his remaining time to share his message about America's potential, focusing on broader themes beyond partisan politics. He expressed his wish for the country to move past current divisions and dysfunction.