Rep. Tom Kean Jr., a 57-year-old Republican representing New Jersey's 7th District, returned to the House of Representatives on June 30, 2026, after nearly four months away for treatment of depression [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. He addressed the House floor publicly revealing his diagnosis, saying, "I was given the diagnosis of depression. 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" [1].
Kean’s absence began after his last vote on March 5, 2026. During the roughly 142 days away, he missed over 140 votes, complicating Republican efforts to keep control of the narrowly divided House [1, 7, 6]. He described entering the hospital for testing several months ago, not expecting a long stay, but his doctors recommended he remain hospitalized longer to recover fully [2, 3, 4].
Initially, Kean and his office referred to his condition as a "personal medical issue" without elaboration and expected recovery, but House GOP leaders encouraged him to be more open [2, 4, 5]. House Speaker Mike Johnson said, "If it were me, I would have been more specific about that, and I encouraged him to be." He added, "I think people resonate with that," referring to Kean's depression disclosure [5, 6].
Despite his absence from votes, Kean’s office remained active. He signed off on stock trades and introduced legislation during that time [2, 5, 6]. Kean urged those struggling with depression to seek help, saying, "Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength" [3]. He expressed gratitude for accepting help and returning stronger, healthier, and ready to work [6].
Kean, son of former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean Sr., is running for a third term in a swing district that is considered critical for Republicans in the 2026 midterm elections [1, 3, 5]. The announcement of his congressional return was made on June 18, with his speech and floor appearance occurring on June 30 [4].
