New Jersey GOP Congressman Tom Kean Jr. Discloses Personal Medical Issue After Weeks of Missed Votes

Representative Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey’s 7th District missed nearly 50 roll-call votes from March 5 through May. On Monday he posted to X that a “personal medical issue” caused the absence, saying his doctors expect a full recovery and that he will resume a “schedule” and be “at 100 percent” soon. He thanked constituents, colleagues, and his teams, noting his “strong record of showing up and delivering.”

Newsweek

Kean’s seat is among the nation’s most competitive. Donald Trump won it by one point in 2024; Democrat Mikie Sherrill carried it by nearly two points in the 2025 governor’s race, while Kean won his 2024 congressional race by about five points. The district contains a Trump-administration immigration detention facility and has lost an infrastructure funding package, raising political pressure before the November election. Kean holds a Dartmouth bachelor’s and a Fletcher School master’s in law and diplomacy (ABD). He served in the New Jersey Assembly (2001-03) and Senate (2003-17) and now sits on the House Energy and Commerce and Foreign Affairs committees, focusing on health-care, infrastructure, innovation and education.

Newsweek

Kean’s silence prompted inquiries from New Jersey Republicans Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew, the latter calling the lack of communication “radio silence.” Nebraska Representative Don Bacon said he only realized Kean’s absence when searching for him on floor. Democratic Representative Rob Menendez expressed worry, noting the long absence and hoping Kean was “doing all right.” Union County GOP Chair Carlos Santos said Kean expected a full recovery within weeks, and consultant Harrison Neely said he would be back on a regular schedule soon. Kean’s statement did not disclose his medical issue or give a concrete return date, leaving timeline unclear.

Newsweek

• “I want to thank my constituents and colleagues for their patience as I address a personal medical issue. 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. I expect to return to a full schedule and be at 100 percent.” — Tom Kean Jr., Congressman

Newsweek

• “radio silence.” — Jeff Van Drew, Representative (New Jersey)

Newsweek

• “I didn't know it was that long.” — Don Bacon, Representative (Nebraska)

Newsweek

• “I hope he's doing all right. But I haven't heard anything.” — Rob Menendez, Representative (New Jersey)

Newsweek

Kean indicated he expects to return “very soon,” but no specific date was set. The absence of a concrete timeline leaves uncertainty as the November election approaches in a district already described as highly competitive.

Newsweek