Republican Congressman Tom Kean Jr. returned to the US House of Representatives on Tuesday after a nearly four-month absence, revealing that he had been hospitalized and treated for depression. Kean, who represents a swing district in New Jersey, delivered a floor speech explaining his disappearance, which had sparked speculation and complicated GOP House control.
Kean reveals depression diagnosis
“Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe that this would result in a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression,” Kean said in his first public comments since returning to Washington DC. He had last voted on March 5, with his office only stating in late April that he was dealing with a “personal health matter.”
The congressman described himself as a “private person by nature” and said the treatment took longer than expected. “The doctors recommended that I remain in the hospital to address my illness. They explained to me that this would be the fastest way to recover, and to be honest, I was hesitant. I didn’t think that I had time for it,” Kean added.
No timeline for healing
Kean noted that he initially believed he would return within weeks but acknowledged the unpredictability of recovery. “When I first informed the public that I was dealing with a medical issue, I was still trying to understand what was happening myself. When I said I hope to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it,” he said. He added that “as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing.”
Kean expressed gratitude for accepting help, stating, “Today I stand before you healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love.”
Absence fueled speculation
Kean’s mysterious absence led to widespread speculation, particularly as it complicated the GOP’s slim majority in the House. Last week, a New York Times reporter found Kean at his New Jersey home, but he declined to comment. Additionally, Kean reportedly traded stocks during his absence, drawing criticism from Democrats who aim to unseat him in November’s midterm elections.
House Speaker Mike Johnson downplayed the absence, saying, “There’s no conspiracy involved in this, there’s nothing scandalous at all. He has a health condition, as he said.” Johnson added, “If it were me, I would have been more specific about that, and I encouraged him to be.”
Comparison to Fetterman case
In 2023, Democratic Senator John Fetterman sought inpatient treatment for depression, but his office promptly announced his hospitalization, contrasting with Kean’s prolonged silence.
