Here's how social media is reacting to Ben Sasse's surprise resignation as UF president

Here's a look at how social media and leaders in Florida and beyond are reacting to the surprise announcement that University of Florida President Ben Sasse is resigning.

“The Board of Trustees thanks Dr. Sasse for his service to the University of Florida. Under his leadership, UF has continued to advance on the national and international stage, benefiting our students, faculty, alumni, community, and state. He has left a lasting impact on the university and all of those associated with it. We wish Ben all the best as he steps back to focus on his family,” Mori Hosseini, chair of the UF board of trustees, said in an email sent to students and faculty Thursday night.

“The board will work quickly and thoughtfully to announce an interim president and lay the foundation for the search for a new president,” the email stated.

Related coverage: Ben Sasse will resign as UF president effective July 31

John Brinkman, the UF student body president, supports Sasse’s decision.

“It is with deep sadness to hear about the recent announcement concerning Melissa’s health. We are wishing the best for President Sasse and his family, and I fully support his commitment to prioritizing his family and their wellbeing during this difficult time," Brinkman said in a prepared statement sent to The Sun Thursday night.

"President Sasse has been a great leader, guiding our university to new heights, and we are so thankful for all his contributions. I am hopeful about the future of the University of Florida and the selection of a new university president. Let us come together as a community to offer our support and best wishes to President Sasse and his family.”

On Facebook, the comments Thursday night from the Gator Nation included "That’s a tough situation. Beautiful writing though. Godspeed!" and "Thanks for everything you’ve done for our university, and much love to you and your family."

On X, the responses were similarly heartfelt. One user replied, "Huge loss for Gators. Prayers for your family," while another noted, "It's true what they say — dad is the most important job you'll do. Best to all."

On X, U.S. Sen. Rick Scott wrote: "@BenSasse you have been a guiding light during a time of darkness the last few months with Hamas sympathizers taking over college campuses. You led @UF’s Gator Nation and the country in calling out antisemitism and preserving free expression. I am glad to hear that the Gainesville academic community will continue to be served by your guidance. Ann and I wish you, Melissa and your family the best as you navigate a very difficult time. The Sasse family will always be part of the Gator family."

Commentator and columnist Jonah Goldberg wrote on X: "So hard to hear. But as expected, Ben Sasse is doing the right thing."

New York Times columnist David Brooks wrote on X: "What a very good man Ben Sasse is. What a tenacious fighter Melissa Sasse is."

Alan Levine, vice chairman of the Florida Board of Governors, which oversees the state university system, wrote on X: "I am saddened to learn of @BenSasse’s resignation as President of @UF. He is doing the right thing as a husband and father, and I respect his decision. He is a great man, and he’s my friend. I ask that everyone pray for Melissa and Ben. UF is on a trajectory for great success, and that will continue."

Washington Post columnist Megan McArdle wrote on X: "A terrible loss for Florida students, but a shining example of love and fidelity for all of us."

"This is deeply saddening. Wishing you peace and serenity in the days ahead," political analyst Jeff Greenfield wrote on X.

"Gator Nation thanks you," Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried wrote on X.

Gator great and Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel wrote on X: "Jess and I are praying for you and your family. Thanks for your leadership and service at UF, and even more for your leadership and service to your family.God Bless you! Go Gators!"

Many comments on the Independent Florida Alligator's Instagram post about the news reflected different sentiments, however.

"THIS made my evening. He should never have pursued this appointment," one Instagram user wrote.

"Feels like just yesterday we were protesting his arrival :']," another wrote.

A few commented that they wished the best for Sasse's wife, but are glad the president is leaving.

"Truly wish the best for her and your family. So, don't worry about us, we're good. Seriously, just take off and help the fam. Like, leave tomorrow," a user commented.

"All the best to your wife but please let’s do better with the next president," another wrote.

Jim Ross and Lillian Lawson contributed to this report

This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: University of Florida and social media react to Ben Sasse resignation