Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings diagnosed with cancer, suspends campaign for governor

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. - Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said Friday that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and that he will suspend his campaign for Florida governor in order to receive treatment, calling it a "difficult decision."

Demings revealed the health diagnosis during a press conference moments after he delivered his final State of the County address on Friday morning. He said he learned of the diagnosis on Monday. He shared the news with his family on Thursday, he said.

Mayor Jerry Demings found out this week he had cancer

What they're saying:

"On Monday of this week, I received some bad news from my doctor, who confirmed that I have prostate cancer, and because of that, I am going to suspend my campaign for governor. I'm going to focus on my health, that will become the priority. I'm only sharing this because I am in this very visible public position. I am sharing about a private matter. I intend to continue running through the finish line of the mayor of Orange County," he said, joined by his wife, Val Demings, a former U.S. Congresswoman and former Orlando police chief, and family.

"In order for me to receive the treatment, I'm going to have to come off the campaign trail. I have to let something go. I can't continue to do my job as mayor, take care of my family, and run for governor. So, I made a difficult decision."

He said thank you to all of those who have supported him over the years and to those who've supported his run for governor.

"All those people who have supported me in this run, who have believed in me as I have run for governor, I say, ‘thank you,’ to all of them," he said.

About Jerry Demings

"I had a wonderful career, a 45-year career, where I have given 100% during that time. I have not been home during hurricanes, other emergencies, I've been out serving the people. My prayer was that I would continue to serve at a different level, but if I don't take care of my own health, I won't serve anybody," he said. 

Jerry Demings was elected as mayor of Orange County in 2018, becoming the fifth mayor of Orange County, and the first African American in the role, according to his online bio. He was reelected in 2022. His current term ends at the end of 2026.

In 1998, he became chief of the Orlando Police Department. In 2008, he was elected sheriff of the Orange County Sheriff's Office, and reelected in 2012 and 2016, according to his bio. He graduated from Jones High School.

He and his wife, Val, share three sons.

Florida leaders react

What they're saying:

"Our prayers are with Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and his family during this difficult time. We wish him a full and speedy recovery" - Florida GOP

"Mayor Demings has served Orange County with commitment and compassion for decades, and the FDP stands with him in prayer and support as he battles against prostate cancer. Jerry is the true definition of a public servant and fierce fighter. I will continue to lift him, Val, and the entire Demings family up in prayer as they face this chapter like they have each one before it–with strength, grace, and unrelenting determination" - " Florida Democratic Party Chair, Nikki Fried.

"Layla and I are praying for Mayor Demings and his family. Cancer affects far too many. We wish him strength during treatment and a full recovery" - Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins

"Jerry has dedicated his life to public service, fighting with passion, mettle, and faith. I know he’ll bring that same spirit to this new chapter. Laura and I wish him a full recovery as we personally pray for Jerry and his family" - Former Congressman David Jolly.

"Erika and I are praying for Jerry and Val. May the Lord watch over the Demings family, provide them with strength and comfort, and bless Jerry with a swift recovery"- Byron Donalds

"Valeria and I are saddened to hear about Mayor Demings' cancer diagnosis. We will be keeping him in our prayers throughout his treatment. I last saw Jerry backstage at an event in Orlando in January, and while we may not see eye to eye on everything, he is a good man who has served his community since 1981" - James Fishback

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States, aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It's also the leading cause of cancer death among men, the CDC said.

All men are at risk of prostate cancer, the CDC, noting that age is the most common risk factor. African American men or those with a family history of prostate cancer have a higher risk, the CDC said.

By the numbers:

• 13 out of 100 American men will get prostate cancer during their life (CDC)
• Between 2-3 men will die from prostate cancer (CDC)
• African American men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than other men (CDC)
• 5-year survival rate: 98% (CDC)

Signs, symptoms, and screening

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends men aged 55-69 talk to their doctor about a prostate cancer screening, the befits, and risks, according to the CDC's website.

Some of the most common symptoms of prostate cancer include frequent or trouble urinating, blood, or pain in the back, hips, or pelvis.

Dig deeper:

• CDC: Prostate cancer fact sheet
• CDC: Prostate cancer symptoms