Missing GOP rep purportedly breaks silence after Trump endorsement

By: Anthony Iafrate

Republican New Jersey Rep. Tom Kean Jr. purportedly said in a Tuesday statement that he was gearing up to return to Capitol Hill “in a matter of weeks” after a monthslong absence.

Kean, who cast his last House vote on March 5, allegedly said that serving his district was the “honor of my life.” Kean’s purported statement came just one day after President Donald Trump endorsed him for reelection and hours before New Jersey voters were set to vote in House primaries where Kean was running unopposed.

“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 Congressman allegedly wrote after missing every roll call vote in the House since March 5 and 20% between January and March.

“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,” the statement said.

According to financial records, Kean both bought and sold stock during his absence from Congress in March.

New statement here from Rep Tom KEAN but doesn’t add much clarity on his ~3 month absence >>

He says he “will transition from virtual work to in person work within a matter of weeks. At that time I will be completely transparent as to the nature of my medical condition” pic.twitter.com/7YxwISTYb3

— Ally Mutnick (@allymutnick) June 2, 2026

“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,” the statement stated.

“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,” the statement added, without specifying his specific condition or his whereabouts. “At that time I will be completely transparent as to the nature of my medical condition.”

Since 2023, Kean has represented New Jersey’s Seventh District, a battleground seat which Trump carried by just one percentage point in 2024 and that went for former President Joe Biden by four points in 2020. Democrats have been actively targeting the seat and the nonpartisan Cook Political Report rates the race as a “Toss Up.”

“Once again, I appreciate all of the prayers and patience from my constituents and colleagues,” Kean’s statement concluded. “I understand the need for transparency on this matter and I look forward to sharing my experience with the public.”

In his Monday endorsement on Truth Social, Trump stated that the missing Republican is a “Tremendous Advocate of our America First Agenda” and is “working tirelessly.”

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