NewsNBC Chicago – PoliticsJune 30, 2026Illinois
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Returns to Congress After Medical Leave
New Jersey Representative Tom Kean Jr. has returned to the House of Representatives following a four-month absence, disclosing that he was receiving treatment for depression. The absence had drawn attention due to the Republican Party's narrow majority in the House and the competitive nature of Kean's district.
Read the full story at NBC Chicago – PoliticsWhy It Matters
The return of Rep. Kean restores a vote to the House Republican majority, which currently holds a narrow 218-212 margin, and clarifies the status of a candidate in a high-profile November election.
Key Facts
- Rep. Tom Kean Jr. was absent from the House for four months due to treatment for depression.
- Kean's last vote in the House occurred on March 5.
- The House Republican majority currently stands at 218-212.
- Kean won an uncontested primary election on June 2.
- Kean is running for reelection in November against Democratic nominee Rebecca Bennett.
- Kean's district includes President Donald Trump's Bedminster golf club.
- Kean defeated Tom Malinowski in 2022 to win his seat.
- Tom Malinowski defeated Leonard Lance in 2018.
- Speaker Mike Johnson stated he was in contact with Kean during the absence.
Who's Mentioned
personDonald Trump“Former President and endorser of Kean”personTom Malinowski“Former Democratic Representative”personTom Kean Sr.“Former New Jersey Governor and father of Tom Kean Jr.”personMike Johnson“Speaker of the House”personLeonard Lance“Former Republican Representative”personTom Kean Jr.“Republican Representative for New Jersey”personRebecca Bennett“Democratic nominee for the district”