Missing GOP congressman reveals he's 'more energized than ever' to return to Washington

Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., said Tuesday he is "more energized than ever" and plans to return to in-person work "within a matter of weeks," issuing a new statement after months away from Capitol Hill because of an undisclosed medical issue.

Kean, who represents New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, has been absent from Congress for months while dealing with undisclosed health issues keeping him away from Washington and the campaign trail. Kean said in April that he was addressing a "personal medical issue," but he has not publicly disclosed the nature of the issue.

Kean has not cast a vote since March 5, according to The New York Times. House voting records also listed Kean as "Not Voting" on a May 21 roll call vote.

"I am optimistic about the road ahead, and ready to earn the support of voters in every corner of the district," Kean continued. "I am more energized then ever to keep fighting for the people of New Jersey's 7th District. Right now I am focused on my recovery and under the advice of healthcare professionals I will transition from virtual work to in person work within a matter of weeks. At that time I will be completely transparent as to the nature of my medical condition."

Kean added that he "understand[s] the need for transparency on this matter" and looks forward to sharing his experience with the public.

"Tom Kean has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election," Trump concluded, telling people to get out and vote.

Four Democrats - Rebecca Bennett, Michael Roth, Tina Shah and Brian Varela - were competing for the nomination to face Kean in November, but Bennett edged them out Tuesday night during the Democratic primary.

The Associated Press described Bennett as a former Navy helicopter pilot, Roth as a former Small Business Administration official, Shah as an intensive care doctor and Varela as a businessman, with each candidate raising seven figures as Democrats target Kean's battleground seat.