SouthernWorldwide.com – A prominent House Republican, Representative Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey, is facing a prolonged absence from his congressional duties due to a “serious” undisclosed illness, potentially impacting the already precarious majority held by his party.
Kean Jr. has not cast a vote in over two months, missing a total of 88 roll call votes since March 5. This absence comes at a critical time as House Republicans strive to pass essential legislation ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
His father, former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean Sr., indicated that his son might not return to Washington until June or possibly later. He described the illness as “serious” and noted that recovery is a gradual process.
“You can’t say definitely, but their best guess is now he’ll be out in two or three weeks,” Kean Sr. told NJ.com in a recent interview, referencing his son’s doctors. “Any time you’ve been through a serious illness, you can’t be 100% the day you get back. You’re gonna be able to do things, but gradually ramping up.”
Kean Sr. further stated that the decision on when his son can resume his congressional duties rests with his doctors. The exact location of Kean Jr.’s treatment remains undisclosed, but it is confirmed he is under the care of multiple physicians.
The nature of Kean Jr.’s illness has also been kept private, with his father telling CNN that it is a personal matter. However, doctors anticipate a full recovery for the 57-year-old congressman.
Kean Jr.’s office has consistently referred to his condition as a “personal health matter” since March, opting not to share specific details about his diagnosis.
A senior aide to Kean Jr. informed The New York Times that there are no cameras present where the congressman is currently located, suggesting a desire for privacy during his recovery.
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The public last heard directly from Kean Jr. in late April through a statement expressing his intent to return to his duties “very soon.”
Despite his current health challenges and absence from the campaign trail, Kean Sr. expressed confidence that his son will seek re-election.
“I think that’s the way he’s going, yeah,” he told the outlet, indicating his son’s intention to run again.
Kean Jr.’s health issues arise as national Democrats are actively targeting his swing seat, which he has held since 2023. Four well-funded Democratic challengers, including emergency room physician Tina Shah, are competing for the party’s nomination in the upcoming June 2 primary.
Meanwhile, Kean Jr. is running unopposed for the Republican nomination, highlighting the internal dynamics of the upcoming elections.
The prolonged absence of Kean Jr. has raised concerns among Republicans in Washington, given its significant impact on their already slim majority in the House.
This week, the House is scheduled to vote on legislation that includes funding for President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., will likely require the full participation of his Republican colleagues to overcome anticipated opposition from Democrats.
Speaker Johnson acknowledged Kean Jr.’s absence, stating that he was informed of a medical issue and is expected back as soon as possible. Johnson also conveyed his prayers for Kean Jr.’s swift recovery, emphasizing that the matter is personal and that his return is needed urgently.
