Tom Kean Jr, a Republican congressman from New Jersey, broke his silence on Tuesday after nearly four months away from the US House of Representatives, revealing that he had been diagnosed with depression. Kean, who last voted on 5 March, had been absent from the Capitol with little explanation, his office only stating in late April that he was dealing with a 'personal health matter'.
In a speech on the House floor, Kean said he entered hospital for testing several months ago and did not expect a long stay, but was given a diagnosis of depression. He explained that doctors recommended he remain in hospital for treatment, which took longer than anticipated. 'There is no timeline for healing,' he said, noting that over 48 million Americans are treated for the illness.
Kean, who represents a swing district, described himself as a 'private person by nature' and did not directly address why he kept his mental health struggles private. He expressed gratitude for accepting help and said he returned 'healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love'. His absence had complicated Republican efforts to control the House and sparked speculation.
Last week, a New York Times reporter found Kean at his home in New Jersey, but he declined to comment. It also emerged that he traded stocks during his absence, drawing criticism from Democrats. House Speaker Mike Johnson downplayed the absence, saying there was 'no conspiracy' but acknowledged he would have been more specific about the health condition.
