New Jersey Congressman Tom Kean Jr. has revealed that he has been undergoing treatment for depression following an absence from public duties that lasted nearly four months. The Republican lawmaker, 57, addressed his nearly four-month absence in a speech on the House floor on June 30.
"Several months ago due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I didn’t expect a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression," Kean stated.
Kean returned to his home in Westfield, New Jersey, on Wednesday evening. When approached by a New York Times reporter, he indicated he would be available for comment the following week.
Kean's top adviser, Harrison Neely, had previously informed the New York Times via text message that the congressman would be "fully transparent" upon his return to work. During Kean's absence, his office had only stated that he was dealing with a "personal health matter" and was "focused on his recovery," which led to speculation about the cause of his disappearance from public view.