Representative Thomas Kean Jr. of New Jersey made his first public statement regarding his nearly two-month absence from congressional votes, citing a "personal medical issue" from which he expects to fully recover. The Republican congressman provided no additional details about the nature of his medical condition or timeline for his return to regular duties in Washington.

Kean's extended absence has left his constituents without representation on House floor votes during a period of significant legislative activity. The congressman has not specified when he will resume his normal congressional schedule or voting participation.

Separately, Representative Daniel Webster of Florida announced Tuesday that he will not seek reelection when his current term ends. The Republican congressman joins a growing list of House Republicans who have chosen to step down from their positions.

Webster's retirement announcement brings the total number of House Republicans leaving their seats at the end of the current term to 36. This wave of departures comes amid what observers have characterized as congressional dysfunction and partisan gridlock in the chamber.

The announcements highlight ongoing challenges facing the House Republican conference, which has dealt with leadership changes and internal divisions throughout the current congressional session. Both developments affect the party's composition heading into the next election cycle.