Kean’s three-month absence changes New Jersey House race

Kean’s absence

Republican Rep. Tom Kean missed 100 House votes during an absence lasting more than three months. He did not publicly explain the absence while it was underway. After returning at the end of June, he said he had been hospitalized for depression.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said in August that he would have explained the absence sooner in Kean’s position, while also expressing sympathy for Kean’s health condition. Campaign manager Harrison Neely said Kean does not avoid reporters and favors direct contact with voters.

Bennett’s challenge

Democrat Rebecca Bennett, 39, is a former Navy helicopter pilot, former aircraft commander and former executive at an online health care company. She is a first-time candidate challenging the 58-year-old incumbent.

Bennett has said she hears deep frustration from voters and described her campaign as gaining momentum, while acknowledging that work remains before Election Day. Kean’s campaign said it invited Bennett to debate on local radio, and Bennett’s campaign declined. The contest is also unfolding as voters consider concerns about the economy and Trump’s policies.

Race rating shifts

The Cook Political Report moved the race from “toss-up” to “lean Democrat.” The rating reflects the contest’s current competitiveness but does not determine an outcome. Kean’s attendance and public schedule, Bennett’s effort to introduce herself to voters, and whether the candidates meet for a debate are now key parts of the campaign.