Rep. Tom Kean Jr. returned to Congress this week after a mysterious absence of nearly four months, disclosing that he had been hospitalized and treated for depression. The New Jersey Republican's extended disappearance had raised questions among constituents and colleagues, as his office initially offered only vague explanations for his time away from Washington.
Kean last voted on March 5 before vanishing from public view. In late April, his office stated only that he was dealing with a "personal health matter" and would return soon. A New York Times reporter located him at his New Jersey home last week, but Kean declined to comment at that time.
In remarks on the House floor Tuesday morning, Kean provided details about his hospitalization. "Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe that this would result in a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression," he said. The congressman explained that doctors recommended he remain hospitalized to address his illness, though he was initially reluctant to accept the extended treatment.
Kean acknowledged that his recovery took longer than expected. He noted that when he first informed the public about his medical issue, he did not fully understand his condition himself. "When I said I hope to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it. Those were the best estimates the doctors could provide, but as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing," he stated.
The congressman described himself as "a private person by nature" when explaining why he had not initially disclosed details about his mental health struggles. He expressed gratitude for accepting treatment, saying he now stands "healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love."
Kean's prolonged absence had complicated House operations during a period when Republicans were working to maintain control of the chamber. During his months away, reports indicated he had continued trading stocks, which drew criticism from Democrats hoping to win the House majority in the midterm elections.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson addressed the situation, stating there was "no conspiracy involved in this, there's nothing scandalous at all." However, Johnson suggested the congressman could have been more transparent initially. "If it were me, I would have been more specific about that, and I encouraged him to be," Johnson told reporters.
Kean's disclosure has renewed conversations about the balance between privacy and transparency for elected officials dealing with personal health matters. Democratic Senator John Fetterman faced a similar situation in 2023 when he sought inpatient treatment for depression, though his office promptly announced his hospitalization at that time.