Rep. Tom Kean has returned to Congress after a 117-day absence, breaking his silence on the health issues that led to his prolonged leave. Kean was last seen on Capitol Hill on March 5, and his return to the House of Representatives on Tuesday marked a significant moment for the congressman.
In a speech on the House Floor, Kean revealed that he had been diagnosed with depression, which prompted his hospitalization and subsequent absence from Congress. He explained that the diagnosis was made several months ago, after he entered the hospital for testing, and that doctors had recommended he stay hospitalized to address his illness.
Kean described depression as a complex and powerful illness that affects not only mental but also physical health. He noted that many people misunderstand depression, thinking it simply means feeling sad, but emphasized that it is a multifaceted condition that requires proper treatment and care. Kean also expressed his initial hesitation to follow his doctor's recommendations, citing his responsibilities to his family, constituents, and the institution, but ultimately agreed to prioritize his health.
During his speech, Kean expressed gratitude to his constituents, staff, family, and doctors for their support and care. He described himself as "healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love," with a deeper appreciation for the millions of Americans who face similar challenges every day. Kean's return to Congress marks a new chapter for the congressman, who had been absent since early March and missed over 135 votes.
House Speaker Mike Johnson had previously acknowledged Kean's absence, stating that he was attending to a personal health matter and expected to return to full capacity soon. However, Kean's specific ailment was not disclosed until his speech on Tuesday, in which he shared his experience with depression and his journey towards recovery.
