New Jersey Republican Tom Kean Jr. informed his colleagues Tuesday that he had been hospitalized for depression during his 142-day absence from the House of Representatives. Kean, 57, stated on the House floor that he was diagnosed with the illness after being admitted for testing due to health concerns.
"I was given the diagnosis of depression," Kean said. "It is physical, it is emotional and, until you've experienced it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be." He explained that his doctors recommended he remain in the hospital, assuring him it was the quickest path to recovery. He initially entered the hospital for testing and did not anticipate a lengthy stay.
During his nearly five-month absence, Kean missed more than 140 votes. Prior to his disclosure, his aides had described his situation as a "personal medical issue" and that he was "under a doctor's care." Some aides reportedly did not know the specific reason for his absence.
Kean's district is considered a swing district, a key area for Republicans seeking to maintain control of Congress in the upcoming midterm elections. Earlier this month, Kean ran unopposed and secured the Republican nomination for his third term. Democrats are targeting his seat in an effort to shift the balance of power in Congress.
Kean has previously urged transparency regarding absences from colleagues and was himself subject to calls for greater openness about his own situation. He stated that many people misunderstand depression, equating it simply with sadness, and emphasized that it is a far more complex condition.