(Radio Iowa) – Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver announced this (Friday) afternoon that he’s undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. Whitver, in a written statement, said he is remaining in the Iowa Senate and continuing in his role as majority leader. Whitver said he is responding well to radiation therapy and intends to lead Republicans through this election cycle in the same way he has since become leader in March of 2018.

In his statement, Whitver said he appreciates the kind words and prayers he and his family have received. Whitver and his wife, Rachel, are the parents of three children. Whitver, who is 43, was first elected to the Senate in a special election in January of 2011. He grew up in Grinnell and was a starting wide receiver for the Iowa State football team for three years.  Whitver was first elected to the Iowa Senate in a special election in January of 2011 and he earned a law degree from Drake the next year. After the 2016 election, Whitver’s Republican colleagues voted to have him serve as president of the Iowa Senate.

Jack Whitver

Governor Reynolds today (Friday) released the following statement of support for Iowa Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver and his family:

“Jack Whitver is a strong and capable leader, and a good friend. I admire and support his decision to remain in his role while undergoing treatment, and I am confident in his ability to do so. Kevin and I know this path well, and also the incredible advancements that have been made with treatment. We pray for his full recovery, for his wife Rachel and their children, and for his medical team. I look forward to continuing our work together on behalf of Iowans.”