Representative Tom Kean Jr. will miss yet another week of House voting, compounding the challenges faced by Republicans in maintaining their fragile majority. The congressman from New Jersey is currently sidelined due to an undisclosed health concern.
Since March 5, Kean, 57, has abstained from voting, tallying 70 consecutive roll-call votes missed. His office confirmed on Monday that this week will also see him absent from Washington.
According to his chief of staff, Dan Scharfenberger, “Congressman Kean is still attending to a personal health matter, and we appreciate the outpouring of support.” He added that Kean is expected to return to his usual schedule soon.
This prolonged absence has added pressure for House Speaker Mike Johnson as the GOP seeks to advance crucial legislation in a tightly divided chamber. With only a narrow margin of control in the House, any absences can significantly hinder progress on party-line votes.
Johnson has expressed confidence in Kean’s recovery, stating, “Tom is one of the most dedicated and hardest-working members of Congress, and I am grateful for all he does and will continue to do to serve New Jerseyans and our country.”
The specifics of Kean’s medical issue remain undisclosed. Concerns about his health have surged in recent weeks, as fellow lawmakers note difficulties in contacting him during his absence.
The situation is politically crucial for Republicans as Kean represents one of the most competitive swing districts, New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, attracting aggressive scrutiny from Democrats ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Despite his absence from Capitol Hill, Kean’s office remains active on social media, providing legislative updates and ensuring that constituent services are not disrupted.
