Westfield: A New Jersey town of 30k; in current headlines due to Kean’s health-related 90–117 day absence and recent re‑appearance at work.
Kean has not voted in Congress for nearly three months due to an unspecified medical issue, placing added pressure on a high-stakes New Jersey primary. Four Democrats are vying to challenge the Republican in November in the Seventh District, a seat seen as crucial for control of the House. The district includes Trump’s Bedminster club and has flipped parties in recent cycles.
The Republican congressman has returned to the House floor after a prolonged absence, saying he was diagnosed with depression during a hospital stay for health concerns. He has missed more than 100 votes in over 100 days away from public view. The return marks a cautious restart of his political duties amid questions about his health and transparency.
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. has publicly disclosed a depression diagnosis, explaining a months-long absence from Congress that left New Jersey’s 7th District without a voting representative. He says his condition required hospital treatment, and he is now returning to work while continuing his recovery. The district remains a focal point in the 2026 race against Democrat Rebecca Bennett.