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Kean secures Republican nomination despite prolonged absence
New Jersey Congressman Tom Kean Jr. clinched his party's nomination for re-election on Tuesday, running unopposed in the primary despite months of unexplained absence from Washington and his district.
Trump endorses Kean amid mystery over whereabouts
Former President Donald Trump publicly backed Kean on Monday, calling him a "Tremendous Advocate of our America First Agenda" and asserting he was "working tirelessly." Trump's endorsement came as Kean's continued absence from Congress-missing over 100 votes-has drawn national attention.
"Tom Kean has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election. HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"
Donald Trump, via Truth Social
Medical issue cited, but details remain unclear
Kean was last seen in public on March 5. His office acknowledged in April that he was addressing a medical concern but provided no further details. A spokesperson told The New York Times in April, "There's no cameras where Tom is."
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on April 27, Kean said his doctors expected a full recovery and that he would "return to a full schedule and be at 100 percent." Nearly a month later, he told the New Jersey Globe in a phone interview that he planned to resume voting and campaigning "in the next couple of weeks."
"I understand the need for public transparency, and I appreciate the support of my constituents."
Tom Kean Jr., in a statement
No public appearances as election day nears
Despite his assurances, Kean has not been seen in public since March, and no updates on his condition or return have been provided. The BBC reached out to his office for comment but has not received a response.
Kean's absence has fueled speculation, particularly as he faces Democrat Rebecca Bennett, a former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot who won her party's primary on Tuesday. The race is critical in New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, a swing district that could determine control of the U.S. House in November's midterm elections.
High stakes in a battleground district
The district has historically flipped between parties, making it a priority for both Republicans and Democrats. Trump's endorsement of Kean underscores the race's importance, even as the congressman's prolonged absence raises questions about his ability to campaign.
Democrats are eager to unseat Kean, viewing the race as an opportunity to shift the balance of power in Congress and deliver a setback to Trump's influence.
