Concerns Raised Over Absent Lawmakers in Congress
Both Democratic and Republican legislators have missed multiple votes, prompting worries regarding two specific members who are away from Washington due to undisclosed health issues.
Representative Tom Keene Jr. (R-N.J.) and Representative Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.) have not participated in votes for over a month.
Keene, who is 57, hasn’t voted since March 5, with his campaign noting a “personal medical issue” as the reason, but without further details. Wilson, 83, last voted on April 17 but intends to return to the Capitol next week.
The absence of these lawmakers is concerning, especially given the slim majority in the House of Representatives, where both parties are urging full participation from their members.
Keene’s situation might impact his re-election bid, particularly since he represents a competitive district, which could shift the balance of power next year.
On April 27, a statement suggested that Keene aims to “return to a full schedule and perform at 100 percent” soon, yet he was still missing as the House reconvened this week.
In the meantime, his website has been promoting various community initiatives, like revealing the winners of the Congressional Art Competition scheduled for May 11.
Wilson’s absence had gone largely unnoticed until a reporter, Jamie Dupree, highlighted it in a recent post. When questioned about her absence, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) mentioned that she is recovering from surgery and is expected back shortly.
Republican leaders have not commented on Keene’s health issues, leaving his return to work uncertain. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) mentioned a conversation he had with Keene about two weeks ago, describing it as “great.” Johnson noted that Keene indicated he was dealing with a medical concern and intended to return as swiftly as possible.
Should all members be present, Republicans still have a margin of loss—up to two votes on party-line issues. As Republicans look to pass funding legislation for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Security without Democratic backing in the upcoming week, near-unanimity will be essential.
