FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Florida Congressman Alcee Hastings says he has pancreatic cancer but plans to remain in office as he fights the disease.

The 82-year-old Democrat said in a statement Monday that he’s optimistic about his chances for survival and for being able to perform his duties.

Hastings was elected to the House in 1992 and is a member its Rules Committee.

He had previously served as a U.S. district judge but was impeached by the House in 1988 and convicted by the Senate on charges that he had accepted a $150,000 bribe from two co-defendants seeking a light sentence.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox