Republican Representative Tom Kean from New Jersey has been absent from Congress for more than 75 days due to a personal medical issue, according to reports.

This prolonged absence has raised significant concerns within the GOP, particularly because Kean holds a seat in New Jersey’s seventh congressional district, which is rated as one of the most competitive in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

The Cook Political Report highlights this district as crucial for the Republican Party’s efforts to maintain its narrow majority in the House of Representatives.Kean’s neighbors reported that his home has been dark for several weeks, adding to the mystery surrounding his whereabouts.

Despite his absence from legislative duties, Kean has continued fundraising activities, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars from corporate political action committees.

Democratic candidate Michael Roth, who is challenging Kean for the seat, criticized the lawmaker for not being transparent with constituents about his absence.

Roth emphasized that Kean’s priorities appear misaligned, stating that while the representative has not shown up for work, he has actively collected funds from corporate interests.The situation places additional pressure on Republican leadership as they navigate a challenging midterm landscape.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP figures are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, given the potential impact on party control of the House.Kean has not provided further details about his medical condition, leaving both his party and constituents seeking more information.This development underscores the high stakes of the 2026 midterms, where even a single seat could influence the balance of power in Washington.