Full Breakdown
New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr.’s Health-Related Absence Threatens Tight House Majority
4/28/2026, 8:09:14 AM
Timeline of the Absence
- March 5 2026: Kean casts his last recorded vote.
- Early March 2026 onward: He misses roughly 50 roll-call votes, creating a prolonged absence.
- April 27 2026: Kean issues a statement confirming a “personal medical issue” and pledging a return “very soon.”
Data & Statistics
The House comprises 217 Republicans, 212 Democrats and one independent, Kevin Kiley, who caucuses with Republicans. Kean’s New Jersey 7th District is rated a “toss-up” by the Cook Political Report. His roughly 50 missed votes matter in a chamber where the GOP holds a five-vote margin on many measures.
Official Statements & Responses
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. said his doctors expect a full recovery and that he will resume a full schedule at 100 percent, thanking colleagues for patience. House Speaker Mike Johnson said after a phone call that Kean expects to be back to 100 % soon and praised him as a dedicated member. Chief of staff Dan Scharfenberger told NBC News Kean is addressing a health matter and will return to a regular schedule.
Criticism & Opposition
Republicans Jeff Van Drew and Chris Smith said they have had “radio silence” from Kean and could not reach him. Democrat Rob Menendez called it “a long absence” and voiced concern. Party leaders warned the lack of detail hampers preparation for votes on Homeland Security funding, a FISA extension and the farm bill, which need every GOP vote.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Kean’s office declined to disclose the medical condition. The New Jersey Globe first reported the extended absence, but other members say they have not seen or heard from him in weeks. Sources differ on missed votes, citing “dozens” versus “50 roll-call votes.”
Why It Matters
The GOP’s five-vote margin makes each member’s presence essential for advancing President Donald Trump’s agenda before the November midterms. Kean’s 7th District is a top target; his health and attendance could sway perception in a race the Cook Political Report calls a “toss-up.” Uncertainty may also affect services and campaign momentum.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My doctors continue to assure me that my recovery will be complete and that I will be back to the job I love very soon.” — Tom Kean Jr., Representative
- “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.” — Mike Johnson, Speaker
- “radio silence” — Jeff Van Drew, Representative
- “It’s been a long absence,” — Rob Menendez, Representative
What’s Next
Kean’s health will be monitored, and his return to the floor is expected “very soon.” The House will schedule votes on bills while preparing contingency plans if his absence persists. The November 2026 election in New Jersey’s 7th District will test whether the health issue influences voter sentiment in a tightly contested race.
