GOP Rep. Tom Kean Jr. reveals reason behind mysterious absence as he returns to Congress after nearly 4 months

New Jersey Congressman Tom Kean Jr. revealed he has been battling depression after a lengthy absence that kept him out of public view for nearly four months.

“Several months ago due to health concerns I entered the hospital for some testing. I didn’t expect a long term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression,” he said in an extraordinary speech on the House floor.

Kean, 57, returned to his Westfield home Wednesday evening but declined to speak to a New York Times reporter who approached him, saying “It’s good to see you. I’ll talk to you next week.”

Long-missing Rep. Tom Kean Jr. addresses mysterious absence on House floor. PBS News

U.S. Rep. Tom Kean (R-NJ) arrives for an expected floor speech at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. on June 30, 2026. REUTERS

The Republican’s top adviser, Harrison Neely, told the outlet in a subsequent text message that Kean would be “fully transparent” when he returned to work June 30.

Rumors swirled in Kean’s absence as his team wouldn’t comment on his disappearance beyond calling it a “personal health matter” and claiming the congressman was “focused on his recovery.”

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.