Tom Kean Jr. faces scrutiny over congressional absence and reelection campaign

Republican Representative Tom Kean Jr. is facing scrutiny following a prolonged absence from the House of Representatives. Between March 5 and June 30, 2026, Kean missed more than 140 roll call votes. While his office cited a “personal medical issue” for his hiatus, critics have raised concerns regarding the use of taxpayer funds for social media content that appears to promote his reelection campaign.

As Kean Jr. seeks reelection in New Jersey’s competitive 7th Congressional District against Democratic challenger Rebecca Bennett, he has ramped up campaign activities. This includes appearing at events with House Speaker Mike Johnson and releasing a new video advertisement featuring his father, former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean Sr. The former governor endorsed his son in the ad, highlighting Kean Jr.’s work regarding Medicare and Medicaid.