Absent from Capitol, Kean Jr. runs unopposed in New Jersey primary

Rep. Tom Kean Jr. has not appeared in Washington since March due to an unspecified medical issue, yet he is running unopposed for a third term in Tuesday’s New Jersey primary. GOP leadership publicly backs him, but his prolonged absence has alarmed Republicans who worry it could complicate holding a key swing seat; if he cannot return, a post‑primary vacancy could be filled by party leaders. Kean has offered only vague updates about his condition, while four Democratic primary challengers have raised substantial funds, keeping the race competitive.