Health Concerns Mount Over Absent Congressman As GOP Majority Hangs By A Thread

Concerns are mounting over the status of Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ), as fellow Republicans on Capitol Hill say they have not heard from him recently.

The congressman has not been around for roughly 50 roll votes beginning March 5, according to Politico.

Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) told NJ Spotlight News, “Nobody’s covering up. We just haven’t heard a word,” and Rep. Chris Smith said, “We’ve both reached out. Don’t know.”

Van Drew further described to the outlet that it’s been “complete radio silence,” and he and Smith are “worried about him.”

“Congressman is addressing a personal health matter. He will be returning to a full regular schedule,” Dan Scharfenberger, the lawmaker’s chief of staff, told the outlet in a statement last week.

The Daily Wire reached out to Scharfenberger for further comment. It’s unknown what Kean’s health condition is.

“I know the congressman and his family appreciate all of the well wishes and support,” Harrison Neely, a consultant for the Republican, said to Politico. “Please know that he will be back on a regular full schedule very soon.”

Kean represents one of the most competitive House districts in the country, with the Cook Political Report ranking his race as a “toss-up.”

The Republican has been in Congress since 2023, and he previously served in the New Jersey Senate as the minority leader. He serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, as well as the Foreign Affairs Committee.

Kean’s absence comes at a chaotic time for the House of Representatives, as Reps. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Tony Gonzales (R-TX), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) have all resigned in recent days due to major scandals.

In addition, Rep. David Scott (D-GA) died Tuesday, and there’s an expulsion push against Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL). The House holds a 218-212 Republican majority with five seats vacant as a result of the recent upheaval.