Rep. Tom Kean Jr., a Republican from New Jersey, has not been seen in Congress for several weeks, leaving even his GOP peers unable to contact him.
His office has mentioned ongoing health concerns, yet the two-term congressman has not participated in a vote since March 5, missing around 50 roll call votes, as reported by POLITICO.
Other New Jersey Republicans, including Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, expressed their worries after attempts to reach him went unanswered. Van Drew described the situation as “radio silence.”
Several Republicans from New York who have collaborated with Kean reported similar experiences. POLITICO noted that his absence has not received much attention from GOP leaders.
Rep. Don Bacon from Nebraska shared his surprise over Kean’s lengthy absence, stating he only realized how long it had been when he sought Kean on the House floor.
“I was looking for him,” Bacon remarked in an interview. “I didn’t know it was that long.”
A consultant for Kean indicated that he is anticipated to return shortly.
“I know the congressman and his family appreciate all of the well wishes and support,” Harrison Neely stated. “Please know that he will be back on a regular full schedule very soon.”
Back in New Jersey, Union County GOP Chair Carlos Santos revealed he has been in touch with Kean and expects his recovery.
Politico: The other two Republicans in the New Jersey delegation, Reps. Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, said they have called and texted Kean out of concern for his health.
But so far, neither said they have heard from him. Van Drew said it’s been “radio silence.”
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“I don’t even know the truth myself or even enough to disclose any information,” Santos told reporters. “But I have been texting with him and was told he’ll be fine and make a full recovery in the next couple weeks.”
Kean serves New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, a competitive area that features Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster. Former President Donald Trump narrowly won this district in 2024, while Democratic former Rep. Mikie Sherrill slightly edged out in the 2025 governor’s race. Kean initially secured the seat by approximately five points in 2024.
He is likely to confront strong Democratic competition with four notable candidates emerging in the primary. Additionally, local concerns tied to immigration detention policies and infrastructure projects have intensified the political pressure on Kean.
Supporters of Kean insist that this absence will not impede his chances by November.
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“Everyone understands from their own family experiences that people run into unexpected health issues,” Bill Palatucci, a Republican National Committee member, stated. “Voters will be completely sympathetic and it’s so early in the year that it will be long forgotten come the fall.”
Democrats have also taken note. Rep. Rob Menendez from New Jersey mentioned he has not received any updates either.
“It’s been a long absence,” Menendez acknowledged. “I hope he’s doing all right. But I haven’t heard anything.”
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