The Honorable Mike Kelly

Cancer has touched so many lives. Could you share how it has impacted you personally, or someone close to you?

“Like so many other American families, cancer has impacted our family, as well. Their stories and their battles guide my work in Congress, to work toward a day when no one has to hear they have cancer.”

How has that personal experience influenced your work in Congress, particularly around health policy and the importance of funding for cancer screening, prevention, and research?

“It’s always tough to watch family members battle cancer. Their personal battles with cancer are always top-of-mind as we work on legislation in Congress. Much of the work we do on the bipartisan House Cancer Caucus focuses on prevention and research. We work to bring new cancer treatments to the market to give patients a greater chance at beating cancer.”

Which policy priorities or legislative efforts are you most proud of that help advance cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, or patient care?

“I’m particularly proud of the legislation we have passed regarding pediatric cancer to help America’s children, including the STAR Act. This legislation expands research on childhood cancers and works to enhance the quality of life for survivors. Through bipartisan efforts and teamwork, we were able to get this bill over the finish line. Before I began serving in Congress, I was an automobile dealer, including a Hyundai dealer. I’ve had the chance to work with Hyundai Hope on Wheels, which raises money for pediatric cancer research. I’ve had the chance to meet so many young, brave cancer patients. Their stories inspire me every day.”

What message would you like to share with the scientists, clinicians, and patient advocates working every day to make progress against cancer?

“First, thank you for the work you’re doing. Without you, without the men and women who work day in and day out to find a cure, we wouldn’t be able to discover some of the incredible scientific breakthroughs that have led to improved treatments and better patient outcomes. I also want to thank our patient advocates, including the wonderful Hyundai Hope on Wheels Youth Ambassadors who I’ve had the honor of working with over the years. Your efforts continue to lead to medical breakthroughs and support in Congress.”

Bipartisan support for cancer research has been a hallmark of progress over the past several decades. Why do you believe this issue continues to bring both parties together and why must that commitment continue?

“Cancer is something that impacts all of us. It’s not a red issue or a blue issue. It’s a red, white, and blue issue. In a political climate where so much can be divided, members of Congress from both sides know this issue isn’t political at all. It requires all of us to come together for a common cause.”

As scientific innovation accelerates, what opportunities do you see on the horizon for improving outcomes
for cancer patients in the US, particularly in rural or underserved communities?

“I’m hopeful that one day, no one will have to hear the words ‘you have cancer.’ I really believe that one day we can get there. We have already taken steps this year and in recent years. In his first term, President Trump signed the Right-to-Try law, which allows Americans battling cancer and other diseases to receive early access to experimental drugs as they pursue a solution that is best for them. The House Cancer Caucus has also supported the FDA’s ban of Red Dye No. 3 earlier this year. Specific to our rural communities, expanding telehealth options remains a priority of mine, not only for cancer patients but for all medical needs. The caucus is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a public health threat.”