Rep. Tom Kean Jr., the two-term Republican who represents New Jersey’s most competitive congressional district, has not cast a vote in Congress since March 5. Even his congressional colleagues can’t seem to tell you where he is.
Kean’s office has been vague, stating that the 57-year-old congressman is dealing with “a personal health matter” and will return to a full schedule soon. Beyond that, there has been almost no information. No updates from his staff, GOP leadership, or, perhaps most importantly, from Kean himself.
New Jersey’s two other Republican House members have expressed concern. “Complete radio silence,” Rep. Jeff Van Drew (NJ-2) told Politico, adding that he and Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-4) have both tried calling and texting Kean without success. “We’re worried about him.”
Another Republican in the House, Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, said he wasn’t even aware Kean had been missing until he personally went to look for him on the House floor Tuesday. “I was looking for him,” Bacon said. “I didn’t know it was that long.”
Almost 50 Votes Missed
Kean has missed nearly 50 roll call votes since his last appearance on March 5, according to NJ Spotlight News.
His social media handles have continued posting, but a closer look reveals the posts are recycled content, reusing old images and captions from events that took place months ago.
Democratic colleagues have also noticed. Rep. Rob Menendez (NJ-8) said the situation is being kept “tight-lipped,” expressing concern for a colleague he sits on the Energy and Commerce Committee with.
The Stakes Are High
Kean represents New Jersey’s most divided seat in the 7th Congressional District. President Trump carried it by a single point in 2024—Governor Mikie Sherrill won it by two points last year.
Kean faces a competitive reelection race in November, and in a wave year, many suspect he could lose his seat to a Democrat. His absence comes alongside a controversial decision by the Trump administration to open an immigration detention facility in his district.
His reelection campaign had $3.35 million in cash on hand as of the first quarter. Whether he’ll be there to spend it and campaign remains a question nobody can answer.