Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., disclosed Tuesday that he was diagnosed with depression, the condition that led to his nearly four-month absence from Congress. Kean, 57, revealed the diagnosis in an emotional speech on the House floor, stating that his recovery required doctors' care in a hospital.
"I'm grateful that I accepted help, because today I stand before you stronger, healthier and excited to return to the work that I love," Kean said. He returned to Washington this week, having been away since early March. His office had previously indicated he would return for the session on June 30.
During his recovery, Kean missed 140 roll call votes, representing a 100% absence rate, according to GovTrack. The two-term lawmaker had kept the nature of his illness private while recuperating but pledged transparency upon his return. House Republican leadership stated they were not privy to the details of his condition when questioned by reporters.
Kean's return bolsters the Republican party's narrow majority as House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., works to pass a critical defense bill. Johnson expressed confidence that Kean would receive widespread empathy for his condition and noted that he had encouraged the New Jersey representative to be open about his absence.
"It's not an uncommon kind of condition and ailment that he's been fighting, and I think people resonate with that," Johnson said. Kean previously indicated that his medical issue did not affect his cognitive abilities and posed no obstacle to seeking a third term in the House.
While absent from Capitol Hill, Kean's office continued to operate, posting on social media, drafting legislation, and entering his remarks into the congressional record.
Kean's return comes as he faces a competitive re-election challenge from Democrat Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot. Bennett is expected to highlight her national security experience, a strategy similar to that used by Gov. Mikkie Sherrill, D-N.J. The district, a suburban swing seat, is considered one of the most contested House races nationally.
Kean, who is endorsed by President Donald Trump, ran unopposed in the May primary. The Cook Political Report classifies his re-election bid as a "toss-up."