GOP Rep. Tom Kean loses re-election bid after monthslong absence

Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., lost his re-election bid to Democratic challenger Rebecca Bennett, according to NBC News projections. Bennett's win marks a significant gain for Democrats in their effort to secure a House majority.

Kean, who was in his second term, had been considered one of the most vulnerable Republicans in the race. In the final weeks, major super PACs stopped supporting him, signaling a shift in campaign momentum.

Kean was absent from Congress from March 5 to June 30, during which he missed 140 votes. He revealed his hospitalization and diagnosis of depression during a speech upon his return to Capitol Hill.

Kean’s absence generated widespread speculation and media attention. His office described his situation as a 'personal medical issue' but provided no further details. Reporters attempted to contact him at his New Jersey home without success.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP leaders confirmed they had spoken to Kean or his family but declined to explain his absence. The lack of transparency fueled public confusion and scrutiny.

Bennett, a healthcare executive and former Navy helicopter pilot, criticized Kean for his support of President Trump’s policies, including Medicaid cuts and the Iran war. Kean, in turn, attacked Bennett for her ties to healthcare companies he claimed denied coverage to patients.

During his absence, Kean’s office maintained a public presence by posting daily on social media, submitting legislation, and publishing remarks in the Congressional Record, giving the appearance of active participation in Congress.