Tom Kean Jr. Extends 2-Month House Absence, Missing Another Week Over Health Matter
Updated
Updated · NBC News · May 12
Tom Kean Jr. Extends 2-Month House Absence, Missing Another Week Over Health Matter
5 articles · Updated · NBC News · May 12
Another week away from Washington will extend Rep. Tom Kean Jr.'s House absence beyond two months, with his office saying the New Jersey Republican is still dealing with a personal health matter.
Since March 5, Kean has missed 68 House votes, including action on legislation to end the Department of Homeland Security's record 75-day shutdown.
Dan Scharfenberger, Kean's chief of staff, said the congressman would return to a regular full schedule soon and that district services continue uninterrupted.
Kean, 57, is seeking re-election in New Jersey's 7th District, a top Democratic target; he faces no GOP primary challenger ahead of the June 2 primary after winning Donald Trump's endorsement.
With a majority on the line, how does one representative's absence affect crucial national security and funding votes?
Can a two-month absence from Washington reshape the outcome of a key congressional toss-up election?