Congressman Recovering From Medical Issue Wins Key Endorsement

A New Jersey congressman who has not been seen in Washington or his district since early March received an endorsement for re-election from President Donald Trump ahead of Tuesday's primary. Colleagues and news organizations reported concerns about his whereabouts shortly afterward, with text messages going unanswered.

His office issued a statement on 27 April saying he was recovering from a 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," the statement read.

Nearly a month later, the congressman participated in a telephone interview with the New Jersey Globe. He said he expected to return to voting and campaigning within a couple of weeks. "I understand the need for public transparency, and I appreciate the support of my constituents," he said in that interview.

No public sightings of the congressman have been reported as voters began casting ballots in Tuesday's primary.

The congressman represents a swing district that has changed party hands in recent cycles. He faces no Republican opponent in the primary and is expected to win the nomination. He will face a Democratic candidate in the November midterm elections. The district is considered key for Republicans to hold in those elections.