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Congressman Tom Kean Jr. Breaks Silence on Four-Month Absence, Reveals Depression Diagnosis
“Until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be,” he said, adding that depression is among the most common mental health disorders in the United States.
Republican Rep. Thomas Kean Jr. of New Jersey has disclosed that a hospitalization and diagnosis of depression were behind his more than four-month absence from Congress, during which he missed over 140 roll call votes.
Speaking on the House floor on June 30, Kean said he was admitted to hospital several months ago and advised by doctors to remain under care as part of his recovery plan. He described the treatment as the “fastest way to recover” and said he ultimately followed medical guidance after initially believing he could “push through” the condition.
“Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength,” Kean said, addressing colleagues for the first time since his extended absence.
The New Jersey congressman, who represents the state’s 7th Congressional District and is the son of former New Jersey governor Thomas Kean, did not provide further details about his hospitalization. However, he used the speech to highlight the seriousness of depression, noting that the condition remains widely misunderstood despite affecting millions of Americans.
“Until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be,” he said, adding that depression is among the most common mental health disorders in the United States.
Kean’s absence began in March, during which time repeated attempts by media outlets to reach him were unsuccessful. His prolonged absence also drew political attention as he faces a competitive re election campaign in November. The Cook Political Report has shifted the race from leaning Republican to a toss up, with Democrats targeting his voting record.
His Democratic opponent, former Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett, along with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, has criticized his record in recent months, arguing that he has become politically vulnerable.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said he remained in contact with Kean during his absence and supported his decision to prioritize health. Johnson also said he would have preferred the congressman be more specific earlier about the reason for his time away, adding that the explanation would be “understandable” to colleagues and constituents.
Kean’s disclosure has brought renewed attention to mental health challenges among public officials, as well as the broader issue of depression rates in the United States, which have remained elevated in recent years.
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Samannay Biswas author
Working as Copy Editor at the Business Desk of Times Now Digital. Dedicated towards crafting interesting financial stories. Previously covered financi ... View More
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