Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Treated for Rare Non-Contagious Illness Since Early March

Representative Tom Kean Jr. has not appeared in Congress since early March and has missed more than 50 votes. Kean’s last recorded vote occurred on March 5, when he supported the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act.

The House reconvened on March 16 after a recess, but Kean did not return. House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters that Kean is addressing a rare health issue and asked him not to disclose details. Johnson said he knows the nature of the condition and is honoring the request for privacy, adding that the diagnosis “will make sense” once revealed.

Kean’s office told The New Jersey Globe that he was addressing a personal health matter and would resume a full schedule soon. By late April, colleagues had grown concerned after repeated outreach went unanswered. Reps.

Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew said they had reached out repeatedly without hearing back. ” On April 27, Kean released a statement saying doctors expect a full recovery. He said the absence had been difficult, praised his staff for maintaining constituent services, and stated he remained committed to seeking reelection.

Former Governor Tom Kean Sr. told CNN that his son had suffered a real illness but would be 100 percent OK. Kean represents one of the most competitive districts in the country. The seat was decided by narrow margins in recent elections, and both parties view the district as a top battleground heading into 2026.