Ed Thompson has cancer. The younger brother of former Governor Tommy Thompson made the announcement on a cable television program he’s hosted for the past ten years, and that news was noted by WisPolitics.com. Thompson, the former two-term mayor of Tomah who’s running for state Senate, said doctors detected a spot on his pancreas while he was being treated for a common intestinal ailment. Thompson said his prognosis is good if he receives prompt treatment. He plans to meet with his doctor this week to schedule surgery.
Thompson said he’ll continue to campaign despite his illness. The former Libertarian is running as a Republican against incumbent Democrat Kathleen Vinehout of Whitehall in the 31st state Senate District.