WASHINGTON — Rep. Tom Kean, R-N.J., made his return to the Capitol on Tuesday, saying he was treated for depression during a nearly four-month disappearance from the public eye.
It was Kean’s first time in the House of Representatives since March 5, having missed more than 140 votes in the chamber since then.
“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 a speech on the House floor.
He said his doctors “recommended that I remain in the hospital to address my illness” and added that depression means more than “feeling sad” — “it is physical, it is emotional, and until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be.”
“Today, I am grateful that I listened to my doctors,” Kean said. “And I’m grateful for the exceptional care that I received from doctors, nurses and support staff. I am grateful that I accepted help. Because today, I stand before you healthier, stronger and excited to return to the work that I love.”
Kean ignored questions from reporters as he walked into the Capitol. He did not discuss his remarks further after this speech, instead getting into a car and leaving.
Kean’s unusual absence brought a national spotlight to the two-term congressman, especially because he represents a swing district that’s expected to be highly competitive this fall and shape the balance of power in the House. His congressional office did not provide information about his whereabouts, and colleagues told reporters they hadn’t heard from him. Meanwhile, media outlets flocked to his district to speak to neighbors and knock on his door.
Kean, 57, was first elected in 2022. He was unopposed in his June 3 primary for renomination to a third term and will face Democrat Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot, in November.
Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., predicted Tuesday morning: “I think Tom gets re-elected easily this fall.”
Bennett, Kean’s Democratic opponent, said in her own statement that she is “relieved that Congressman Tom Kean Jr. is well and continue to wish him good health. But let’s be clear: I got into this race because Tom Kean Jr. was failing our community long before this absence.”
