GOP Rep. Tom Kean Returns to Congress, Disclosing Diagnosis of Depression Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey disclosed on Tuesday that he had been hospitalized for depression, a condition that has kept him absent from public life for months. Speaking on the House floor, Kean emphasized the importance of seeking help, stating, “Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength.” His disclosure came as he prepares to run for a third term in a competitive district, despite having missed over 140 votes since March 5, when he last cast a ballot. Kean described depression as a complex illness that extends beyond emotional distress, noting its physical and psychological toll. “Until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be,” he said. During his hospital stay, he reflected on how long the condition had affected his life, acknowledging that recovery has no set timeline. “There is no timeline for healing, only the work of getting better one day at a time,” he added. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who addressed reporters ahead of Kean’s speech, expressed support for the New Jersey Republican. Johnson admitted he would have been more open about his own condition but defended Kean’s absence, stating, “I think his constituents have been served throughout this process. I think Tom gets reelected easily this fall.” Johnson also sent a personal note to Kean, assuring him, “We’re in your corner and we’re behind you 100%.” Kean’s prolonged absence sparked questions about transparency. Johnson claimed he had spoken with Kean on April 24, during which the congressman described his condition as a “personal health matter” and expressed optimism about his recovery.#new_jersey #house_speaker_mike_johnson #tom_kean_jr #tom_kean_sr #congressional_disclosure_documents
