Police were called on a New York Times reporter, Tracey Tully, while she was covering a fundraiser for House Speaker Mike Johnson at the Hawk Pointe Golf Club in New Jersey. The event was intended to support Thomas Kean Jr., who is campaigning to retain his seat in Congress. Tully was reportedly blocked by Kean's spokesman, Harrison Neely, who stated that the event was private and media were not allowed. However, other reporters, including one from Fox News, were permitted entry.
While waiting in her car for Johnson or Kean to exit, a police sergeant arrived after receiving a report of a trespasser. Sergeant Dallas Overko found Tully in her vehicle and allowed her to remain in the parking lot. Tully later managed to question Johnson about Kean's absence from Congress, during which Johnson commented on the situation and emphasized the importance of transparency from Republican lawmakers.
Kean had returned to Congress on June 30 after a 116-day absence due to hospitalization for depression, a fact that has drawn attention and controversy regarding his communication with the public. Johnson noted that different campaigns handle media interactions in various ways, and Kean's absence has raised questions about his engagement with constituents. President Donald Trump endorsed Kean during his absence, urging voters to support him.