Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-NJ) returned to the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday after a nearly four-month absence for depression treatment.
The return of the congressman marks the end of a period of uncertainty regarding the representation of New Jersey’s 7th congressional district. His absence left a significant gap in legislative participation during a critical session of Congress.
Kean said that he was hospitalized and treated for depression, a mental health condition that required professional medical intervention. "I was diagnosed with depression and received treatment," Kean said.
The congressman was away from his duties starting March 5, 2026 [3]. His absence lasted 117 days [1], which totals approximately four months. During this time, he was unable to attend sessions or participate in legislative proceedings in Washington, D.C.
Because of the length of his hospitalization and recovery, Kean missed more than 140 votes [2]. The high number of missed votes underscores the severity of the health crisis that kept him from the House floor.
"I missed more than 140 votes while I was away," Kean said.
Upon his return to the House on June 30, 2026, Kean expressed gratitude for the support he received during his recovery process. "I am grateful to be back," Kean said.
Kean's public disclosure regarding his mental health comes as part of a broader effort to be transparent about the reasons for his prolonged absence from public life. He has now resumed his role representing his constituents in New Jersey.
“"I was diagnosed with depression and received treatment."”
The public disclosure of a mental health crisis by a sitting member of Congress reflects a growing trend of transparency regarding psychological health in high-stress political environments. By quantifying the impact of his illness, specifically the loss of over 140 votes, Kean provides a rare look at how severe depression can incapacitate a federal lawmaker and leave a district temporarily without a voting voice in the House.
