The New Jersey congressman said he was hospitalized for depression and returned to the House Tuesday after missing more than 100 votes since March.
Washington, DC – Rep. Tom Kean Jr., a Republican representing New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, returned to the U.S. House on Tuesday and publicly disclosed that depression was the medical condition that kept him away from Congress for nearly four months.
In a speech on the House floor, Kean said, “Talking about myself has never come naturally,” adding, “I owe the people of New Jersey an explanation.” It was his first day voting since March 5 after an extended absence that prompted questions from lawmakers and constituents.
Congressman says he was hospitalized
Kean told colleagues he was diagnosed with depression, describing it as “a powerful illness.” He said doctors recommended hospitalization for treatment, a step he initially resisted before ultimately receiving care.
His office had previously described his absence only as a “personal medical issue,” while stating that physicians expected him to make a full recovery and that his cognitive abilities had not been affected.
Absence drew scrutiny
Kean’s nearly four-month absence came as House Republicans held a narrow majority, resulting in him missing more than 100 votes.
According to previous statements, House Speaker Mike Johnson was aware of Kean’s medical condition but honored the congressman’s request to keep it private, describing it as a “very common” illness.
Despite being away from Washington, Kean won New Jersey’s Republican primary in June without opposition. He is expected to face Democratic nominee Rebecca Bennett in the November election for the New Jersey 7th Congressional District.
Key Points
- Rep. Tom Kean Jr. said depression caused his nearly four-month absence from Congress.
- The New Jersey Republican said he was hospitalized after doctors recommended treatment.
- Kean returned to voting Tuesday after missing more than 100 House votes since March 5.
Related: Tom Kean Jr., New Jersey 7th Congressional District, U.S. House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, Rebecca Bennett, depression