Two members of the House of Representatives have been absent from Washington for extended periods due to undisclosed medical issues, prompting increased scrutiny over lawmaker transparency during a time of razor-thin legislative margins.

Representative Thomas Kean Jr., a Republican from New Jersey, last cast a vote in the House on March 5, citing a medical issue for his absence. A planned public appearance scheduled for late May has since been canceled, with no timeline provided for his return to Congress.

Representative Frederica Wilson, a Democrat from Florida, has also missed weeks of votes due to what has been described as a mysterious health issue. Both lawmakers' offices have provided limited details about the nature or expected duration of their medical situations.

The prolonged absences have drawn attention from both parties, as House leadership has been encouraging full participation from members given the narrow margins that often determine the outcome of legislative votes. The current composition of the House makes every vote potentially decisive on key legislation.

The situation highlights ongoing questions about transparency requirements for elected officials regarding their ability to fulfill their duties. While members of Congress are not required to disclose specific medical information, extended absences can impact their constituents' representation and the legislative process.

Neither representative's office has provided updated information about their expected return dates or the current status of their medical situations.