The mystery surrounding Representative Tom Kean Jr.'s prolonged absence from Congress has deepened following a new report indicating that his neighbors have scarcely seen his wife either.
Extended Absence Sparks Concern
The Republican congressman, who represents New Jersey's 7th congressional district, has not cast a vote since March 5. His ongoing absence has raised concerns in Washington, D.C. Last month, Kean stated he is dealing with a "personal medical issue," but few additional details have been disclosed.
According to NOTUS, Kean's neighbors in Westfield, New Jersey, have observed minimal activity around the congressman's home in recent weeks. They also reported seeing little of his wife, Rhonda Kean.
NOTUS reporter Jose Pagliery spotted Rhonda Kean outside her home on Tuesday, but she declined to comment when asked about her husband.
The Independent has contacted Kean's office for comment.
Statement on Medical Issue
Kean, who is running for reelection this year, released a statement on April 27 explaining his absence. He cited a "personal medical issue" and expressed his intention to return to his congressional duties "very soon."
"I take my responsibilities seriously and have a strong record of showing up and delivering, which makes this absence all the more difficult. I am especially proud of my Congressional team, who have kept constituent services and legislative work moving forward without interruption, and my political team for ensuring the campaign continues to run strong," he said.
House Speaker Weighs In
House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters on Wednesday that he is not aware of the specifics of Kean's situation but reiterated that Kean is expected back in Washington "soon."
"I talked to Tom — it's been a few weeks ago now — on the phone, and he sounded good and optimistic and we're expecting him back here soon," Johnson said. "He's had a medical issue and he's gonna be fully transparent and disclose all that, that’s what he told me. But I don't even know the details," he added.
Assurances from Staff and Family
Harrison Neely, a consultant working with the congressman's political team, told NOTUS that Kean is facing a "personal medical situation and is under the care of doctors."
"The expectation is that he is going to be 100% and totally healthy. The timeline for that looks very good," Neely said.
Others close to Kean have confirmed expectations of a full recovery. His father told CNN last week that Kean is "hopefully coming back soon."
"It took a real illness to knock him out. This won’t linger. It’s not some kind of disease that’s going to incapacitate him in the future. The consensus is that he will be 100 percent OK," his father said.
Dan Scharfenberger, the congressman's chief of staff, also told The New York Times last week, "There’s no cameras where Tom is."
