Trump Backs Absentee New Jersey Rep. Kean as Election Day Arrives

Despite being unseen in Washington or his New Jersey district for several months, Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. is poised to secure his party’s nomination for re-election on Tuesday, bolstered by a recent endorsement from President Donald Trump.

Trump declared his support on social media, stating, "Tom Kean has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election," and added, "HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!" In a subsequent post on Truth Social, the President described Kean as a "Tremendous Advocate of our America First Agenda" who "is working tirelessly."

Kean, who faces no Republican challenger, has not engaged in traditional campaigning. However, U.S. media outlets have highlighted his prolonged absence from Congress, noting he has missed over 100 votes since his last appearance on March 5. His whereabouts have become a subject of national interest, with text messages to his office going unanswered and interview requests ignored. Following his final vote in March, colleagues, Republican officials, and news organizations expressed concern regarding his location. When contacted by The New York Times, an aide remarked, "There's no cameras where Tom is."

In April, Kean’s staff cited a medical issue as the reason for his absence. A statement released by his office on April 27, posted on X, expressed optimism about his return. "My doctors continue to assure me that my recovery will be complete and that I will be back to the job I love very soon," Kean wrote. "I expect to return to a full schedule and be at 100 percent."

Nearly a month later, Kean spoke with the New Jersey Globe via telephone, reaffirming his intention to seek re-election and re-enter public life. "I understand the need for public transparency, and I appreciate the support of my constituents," he said. "I anticipate that in the next couple of weeks, I'll return to voting and to the campaign trail."

As ballots were cast on Tuesday, there were still no confirmed sightings of Kean. The BBC attempted to reach his office for comment but had not received a response.

The district Kean represents is classified as a swing seat, making it highly competitive between parties. It is viewed as a critical battleground for Republicans aiming to maintain control in November’s midterm elections, which will decide the balance of power in Congress. Democrats are targeting the seat to gain leverage and challenge Trump’s agenda.

Trump’s backing of Kean aligns with his broader pattern of supporting controversial or enigmatic candidates. Following his expected victory in the Tuesday primary, Kean will face the Democratic nominee in the general election this November.

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-02 17:40:56 UTC