A congressman is currently absent from work due to an undisclosed health issue, expected to miss several weeks more as he recovers. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-N.J.) hasn’t cast a vote in over two months while trying to back a recently passed House Republican bill leading up to the midterm elections.
His father, former Governor Tom Kean Sr. (R-N.J.), noted that his son might not return to Washington until after June due to a “serious” illness. He mentioned, “I can’t say for sure, but their best guess is he’ll be out in two or three weeks.” He added that recovering from a serious illness means one won’t be at 100% right away; instead, it’s a gradual process of getting better.
Health issues and threats against Congress members have raised concerns about their safety and well-being. While doctors are cautious about giving a timeline for Kean Jr.’s return, he has missed all 88 House votes since March 5, according to GobTrack. New Jersey Republicans have been optimistic, stating he will resume his legislative duties “soon,” but specifics are unclear.
There was no immediate comment from Kean Jr.’s office regarding his return. His father indicated that multiple doctors are involved in his son’s treatment but didn’t disclose any details about the specific nature of the illness. He mentioned that recovery is expected, though Kean Jr.’s office has described the situation as a “personal health issue” without further elaboration.
While Kean Jr. has been out of public view, he did say in late April that he would “soon return to the job I love.” Meanwhile, his father expressed confidence that his son would still run for re-election despite his current absence from campaigning.
Kean Jr.’s health challenges coincide with the National Democratic Party intensifying efforts to target his position. He will face challengers, including a well-funded emergency room physician, for the Democratic nomination in the upcoming primary while he runs unopposed for the Republican side.
Republican leaders in Washington are increasingly worried that Kean Jr.’s prolonged absence could significantly affect their fragile majority in Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) acknowledged that he wished Kean Jr. a swift recovery, expressing limited knowledge about his health situation but affirming that it is a personal matter. Johnson noted that they are praying for him and looking forward to his return.
