New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr., missing from public view for nearly three months with an undisclosed illness, said in a statement Tuesday he’s “more energized than ever” — but seemed to push back a timeline for his return to the Capitol.
He continued to withhold details of his illness and did not detail when he expects to be back in Washington.
Kean, who’s seeking a third term, faces no opposition in Tuesday’s Republican primary. Four Democrats are vying to unseat him.
“I am more energized than ever to keep fighting for the people of New Jersey’s 7th District. Right now I am focused on my recovery and under the advice of healthcare professionals, I will transition from virtual work to in person work within a matter of weeks,” Kean said. “At that time I will be completely transparent as to the nature of my medical condition. Once again, I appreciate all of the prayers and patience from my constituents and colleagues. I understand the need for transparency on this matter and I look forward to sharing my experience with the public.”
The 57-year-old Republican last voted on March 5, and his absence has been a national news story, with reporters scouring New Jersey and beyond for clues as to his whereabouts. The mystery comes as Kean faces what’s expected to be an extremely competitive reelection fight in his district, which he won by 5 points in 2024 — an unusually strong year in New Jersey for Republicans.
Kean has given just one interview to the press since March. He told New Jersey Globe on May 21 that he anticipated returning to voting and the campaign trail “in the next couple weeks.” His statement Tuesday that he will return to in-person work “within a matter of weeks” appears to push that timeline back.
The prolonged absence and President Donald Trump’s unpopularity have made Democrats more confident about ousting Kean, whose family has long been prominent in Garden State politics and whose father is the most popular former governor of New Jersey in modern times. Kean was also a state lawmaker for over 20 years.
Kean has also had to tamp down speculation that was starting to circulate among Republicans that he would not seek reelection.
Trump formally endorsed Kean in a social media post Monday night, saying the congressmember was “working tirelessly.”
“Serving the people of this district is the honor of my life,” Kean said. “Every day, I wake up determined to build on the results I have delivered for New Jersey families such as lowering costs, restoring the SALT deduction, funding our law enforcement, helping veterans, standing with Israel, strengthening our economy, and making government work better for the people it serves.”
The Democrats competing to take on Kean are Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot; Michael Roth, a former high-ranking Small Business Administration official; Tina Shah, a medical doctor; and Brian Varela, an entrepreneur who owns several daycare businesses.
The Democrats have treaded carefully on Kean’s absence, saying at a recent debate that they hope he recovers but they expressed frustration about his lack of communication.
“This campaign will offer a clear choice. While Washington Democrats continue pushing an agenda that is too extreme, too expensive, and out of step with New Jersey, I will continue putting our constituents first and working with anyone to get things done,” Kean said. “I am optimistic about the road ahead, and ready to earn the support of voters in every corner of this district. Together, we are going to win this race and continue delivering for New Jersey.”
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