Kean returned to Congress after an unexplained absence. Now it’s time for his first and only debate

Tom Kean Jr., a Republican congressman representing New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, has returned to Congress after a four-month unexplained absence. The district, which includes President Donald Trump's Bedminster golf club, has changed party control in each of the past two midterm elections, making it a prime target for campaign spending and a political barometer.

Kean, a former state legislator, seeks a third term and recently returned from hospitalization for depression. He missed more than 100 votes during his absence. On the other side, Democrat Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy pilot and healthcare executive, is a political newcomer. She won her primary in June and is considered more moderate and electable than some of her competitors.

The campaign debate is set for Sunday night, marking Kean's first and only debate of the race. Both candidates have received significant financial support, with Kean receiving over $3 million from a super PAC tied to the Republican president and Bennett receiving about $2.5 million from a Democratic PAC for television ads.