(JTA) — Former U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter reportedly is "battling for his life."
Specter, who represented Pennsylvania in the Senate for more than 30 years, was diagnosed with cancer six weeks ago, CNN reported Tuesday. He previously overcame a brain tumor and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
Specter’s officer confirmed to the Philadelphia Inquirer on Tuesday morning that Specter is fighting cancer.
"I am battling cancer, and it’s another battle I intend to win," Specter said in a statement issued by his office, according to the newspaper.
Specter, 82, was treated for non-Hodgkins lymphoma in 2005 and again in 2008.
The Jewish lawmaker served as a Republican senator from 1980 until 2009, then switched to the Democratic Party until he lost his bid for reelection in 2011.
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