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NewsNBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – PoliticsJune 30, 2026Los Angeles

Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Returns to Congress After Medical Leave

New Jersey Representative Tom Kean Jr. has returned to the House of Representatives after 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 his district.

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Why It Matters

The return of Rep. Kean restores a vote to the House Republican majority, which currently holds a narrow 218-212 margin, impacting the party's ability to pass legislation.

Key Facts

  • Rep. Tom Kean Jr. was absent from the House for four months, with his last vote cast on March 5.
  • Kean disclosed he was receiving treatment for depression during his absence.
  • 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.
  • The district Kean represents is considered a battleground seat that has changed parties in the last two midterm elections.
  • Kean defeated Tom Malinowski in 2022; Malinowski defeated Leonard Lance in 2018.
  • Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed he was in contact with Kean during the absence.

Who's Mentioned

personRebecca Bennett“Democratic nominee for the district.”personTom Kean Sr.“Former New Jersey Governor and father of Tom Kean Jr.”personDonald Trump“Former President who endorsed Kean.”personLeonard Lance“Former Representative defeated in 2018.”personTom Malinowski“Former Representative defeated by Kean in 2022.”personTom Kean Jr.“Republican Representative from New Jersey who was absent for four months.”personMike Johnson“Speaker of the House.”