New reporting from CNN reveals that Kean Jr.’s absence “is now increasingly rattling House Republicans” and stoking fears that “the unexplained absence could complicate the GOP’s ability to hold onto a critical swing seat in an already difficult midterm cycle.” 

CNN also reports that Republicans “are frustrated by what they see as a massive public relations failure,” and that his office has stopped responding to press inquiries.

Kean Jr. refuses to explain his whereabouts to his constituents, but he does have time to tout Donald Trump’s “complete and total endorsement.” It begs the question: Is Kean Jr. anxious as rumors swirl about him potentially getting replaced on the ballot? Multiple local Republicans have been floated as replacements for Kean Jr., including state Sen. Doug Steinhardt, state Assemblyman Erik Peterson, and state Sen. John Bramnick.

DCCC Spokesperson Eli Cousin:
“D.C. Republicans are freaking out about losing this seat because even they know that Tom Kean Jr.’s lack of transparency will dog him on the campaign trail – if he ever reemerges. His months-long absence has put a spotlight on his self-inflicted vulnerabilities including playing the stock market while in office, putting loyalty to Donald Trump first, and failing to show up when the people of New Jersey need him most.”