Tom Kean Jr. Misses 88 House Votes, May Stay Out Until June

5 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 18

Tom Kean Jr., a New Jersey Republican, has missed all 88 House roll-call votes since March 5 and is now expected to remain out for at least two or three more weeks.
His father, former Gov. Tom Kean Sr., said doctors are treating a serious but undisclosed illness and expect a full recovery, though they have not cleared him to resume congressional work.
The two-term lawmaker's office has repeatedly said he would return soon but has offered no diagnosis or firm timetable; Kean last spoke publicly in late April, saying he would be back very soon.
His absence is straining House Republicans' narrow majority as Speaker Mike Johnson prepares votes this week on funding President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement agenda and says he knows little beyond the medical leave.
The prolonged disappearance also clouds a competitive swing-seat race in New Jersey, where Democrats are targeting Kean's district ahead of a June 2 primary while he is expected to seek re-election.

What protocols ensure constituents are represented during a lawmaker's long-term medical crisis?

How can Congress function when one member's absence can halt major national legislation?

When does a public servant's private health issue become a matter of public concern?