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NewsNBC Bay Area — PoliticsJune 30, 2026California

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.

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Why It Matters

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

Key Facts

  • Rep. Tom Kean Jr. was absent from the House of Representatives for four months.
  • Kean disclosed he was receiving treatment for depression during his absence.
  • Kean's last vote in the House prior to his return was cast 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 won his seat in 2022 by defeating Tom Malinowski.
  • The district previously changed hands in the 2018 and 2022 midterm elections.

Who's Mentioned

personTom Malinowski“Former Democratic Representative defeated by Kean in 2022.”personDonald Trump“Former President who endorsed Kean and owns a golf club in Kean's district.”personMike Johnson“Speaker of the House who commented on Kean's return.”personLeonard Lance“Former Republican Representative defeated in 2018.”personTom Kean Sr.“Former New Jersey Governor and father of Tom Kean Jr.”personTom Kean Jr.“Republican Representative from New Jersey who was absent for four months.”personRebecca Bennett“Democratic nominee for the district in the upcoming November election.”