Congressman Thomas Kean Returns After Months, Reveals Hospitalization for Depression

Republican Congressman Thomas Kean appeared in the House of Representatives on July 1 for the first time since March, ending a nearly four-month absence that had sparked widespread speculation. In a brief speech on the House floor, Kean disclosed that he had been hospitalized after being diagnosed with depression. He explained that his condition was more than just sadness, describing depression as a serious physical and emotional illness that is difficult to understand without personal experience.

Kean, representing New Jersey, stated he is now fully supported by his doctors and feels healthier and stronger, expressing eagerness to return to his work. He emphasized that recovery has no set timeline, only daily efforts to improve. Earlier in the month, Kean won the Republican primary unopposed and promised to be fully transparent about his health going forward.

His prolonged absence had raised concerns among Republicans about the potential impact on the party's control in the House. While Democratic lawmakers expressed sympathy for Kean's condition, they criticized his decision to conceal his illness for months, underscoring the public's right to honest communication from elected officials. Democratic Congressman Ritchie Torres, who lives with depression himself, acknowledged empathy but stressed the importance of transparency in public service.