New Jersey Congressman Tom Kean Jr. Loses reelection

Kean, who has served two terms, was absent from many votes earlier in the year while receiving treatment for depression, a condition he kept private until returning to Washington in late June. This absence spanned nearly four months.

Upon his return, Kean stated on the House floor that there is “no timeline for recovery” from depression. His prolonged absence and the lack of public information regarding his health sparked discussions about the transparency expected of elected officials.

Kean was considered a vulnerable Republican in this election cycle. The Congressional Leadership Fund, a super PAC associated with House Speaker Mike Johnson, redirected campaign resources to other races weeks before the election, hinting at the likely result in the 7th District.

Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot, held a fundraising advantage. Her campaign raised approximately $3.9 million from July through September, compared to Kean’s $1 million during the same period. Overall, Bennett amassed nearly $8.2 million in contributions, while Kean raised roughly $5.9 million.

Kean previously served as a state lawmaker and was elected to Congress in 2022, defeating Democratic incumbent Tom Malinowski and flipping the district.

Both House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries actively campaigned in the district in August, underscoring its significance in the parties’ efforts to control the House of Representatives.