Senator Tom Kean Jr. Will Not Seek Re-Election

DISTRICT 21, NJ — Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean, Jr. says he will not seek re-election. He will serve out his term in the 21st legislative district, which including parts of Union, Somerset, Morris counties and Essex.

"Public service will always be a part of who I am and how I live my life, but after thoughtful discussion with my family, I have decided not to seek re-election for the State Senate in the 21st legislative district,” said Kean. "It has been an honor to serve these communities and I will always cherish the countless friendships and memories we have made together. I am committed to continuing a bipartisan approach as a leader throughout the remainder of this term and will work every day to deliver solutions for my constituents."

Kean recently ran and lost the race against incumbent Democrat Tom Malinowski in November for New Jersey's 7th Congressional District seat. Read More: Kean Concedes 7th Congressional District Race Against Malinowski

Kean, the son of the popular former New Jersey Gov. Tom Kean, began his political career in 2001 when he was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly. Two years later, Kean was named to the upper house of the state legislature.

Kean was nominated and selected for the inaugural class of the Rodel Fellowship program by The Aspen Institute, where he finished a fellowship program for young public officials focused on ethics and responsibilities of public leadership.

He was named one of only 40 state leaders from the entire nation to be recognized as a Toll Fellow by the Council of State Governments for high achievement and service to state government.

In 2008, Kean was unanimously elected Senate Republican Leader.

"During his time in the state legislature, Kean has focused on long-term strategies for an affordable state and growing our way to a better future. He has been a champion of job creation, finding innovative solutions to grow our economy, protecting animals and clean air, and providing support for the disabled community," according to his release.

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