Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Says He's 'Stronger Than Ever' Following Hospitalization for Depression
The New Jersey Republican addresses scrutiny over missed votes, emphasizing his recovery and commitment to combating mental health stigma.
Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., has stated he is "stronger than ever" as he seeks re-election in New Jersey's 7th District, responding to questions about his absence from Congress due to a months-long hospitalization for depression.
In an interview with "The Fox News Rundown" podcast, Kean explained that his absence earlier this year was the result of a medical emergency. "Nobody can schedule a medical emergency, and we were able to discuss and tell people while I was in the hospital that we [had] a medical situation in the family with me," he told Fox News’ Mike Emanuel. Kean returned to the House in June and disclosed his diagnosis, aiming to reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions. "I also spoke on the House floor when I returned that I'd been in the hospital for depression because I want to get rid of the stigma associated with any mental health condition."
Kean had been away from Congress since early March, missing over 100 roll call votes before publicly revealing his diagnosis. His extended absence prompted calls for transparency from lawmakers across the political spectrum and became a point of focus for his Democratic challenger, former Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett.
When asked by Emanuel if his absence had impacted his standing with voters, Kean reiterated his improved health and his commitment to openness. "As I said, I'm feeling stronger than ever. And I tell them the same issue that I just talked to you about. The fact that I had to treat my own mental health, I had to take that seriously," Kean said. "I was in the hospital for those months that I was away. I spoke on the House floor that I had depression, and now we need to get rid of any stigma associated with mental health treatment."
Kean also highlighted his legislative work, referencing bipartisan efforts in New Jersey to mandate equal insurance coverage for mental and physical health treatments, and stated his intention to pursue similar initiatives in Washington.