Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. has been absent from Congress for more than a month due to an undisclosed health condition.
In his first public statement about the absence, Kean shared on social media that he expects to recover fully and return to Capitol Hill soon. The congressman did not specify the nature of his medical issue.
Kean’s statement read: “I want to thank my constituents and colleagues for their patience as I address a personal 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. I expect to return to a full schedule and be at 100 percent.”
He added: “I take my responsibilities seriously and have a strong record of showing up and delivering, which makes this absence all the more difficult. I am especially proud of my Congressional team, who have kept constituent services and legislative work moving forward without interruption, and my political team for ensuring the campaign continues to run strong.”
Kean also thanked colleagues on both sides of the aisle: “I appreciate your support and look forward to being back in the near future.”
The congressman’s absence coincides with a critical period for House Republicans, who hold a slim majority. With key legislative efforts pending—including a budget resolution to fund the Department of Homeland Security—every vote carries significant weight. Kean, running for re-election in one of the nation’s most competitive districts, has not disclosed his medical condition. His office previously declined to publicly state what health issue he is facing.
Kean’s absence follows heightened concerns about lawmaker well-being as House Republicans have grappled with multiple instances of illness and death among members since the start of the current Congress in January 2023, during which five representatives have passed away, including Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) last week.