Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., returned to the House floor Tuesday after an absence of nearly four months, delivering an emotional speech in which he revealed for the first time that he was diagnosed with depression after entering the hospital for testing. The two-term lawmaker from New Jersey said his illness required a prolonged hospital stay and left him under doctors' care as he worked toward recovery.
Kean, 57, had been absent since early March. A spokesperson for the New Jersey Republican confirmed earlier this month that he would return for the June 30 session. During his time away, Kean's office continued to post on social media, draft legislation and introduce remarks into the congressional record despite his physical absence from Washington.
What the Left Is Saying
Former Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett, the Democrat challenging Kean in New Jersey's competitive 7th Congressional District, is expected to emphasize her national security credentials in the race. Democrats are planning an aggressive push to defeat Kean, viewing the seat as one of the most flippable House districts in the country.
The party's strategists note that Kean's extended absence came during a period when every Republican vote mattered in the closely divided House. His missed votes could become a campaign issue as Bennett frames herself as a more reliable presence for New Jersey voters. Cook Political Report rates the race as a toss-up, reflecting its competitive nature heading into November.
What the Right Is Saying
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., expressed support for Kean upon his return, saying he had encouraged the New Jersey lawmaker to be transparent about his condition when he felt ready. 'It's not an uncommon kind of condition and ailment that he's been fighting, and I think people resonate with that,' Johnson told reporters Tuesday.
Republicans have rallied around Kean's disclosure, praising him for speaking publicly about mental health struggles. GOP leaders noted that Kean kept his office functioning during his absence and maintained connection with constituents through digital outreach. The party is highlighting Kean's endorsement from President Donald Trump and pointing to his May primary victory, when he faced no challengers.
What the Numbers Show
According to GovTrack, Kean missed 140 roll call votes between early March and late June, representing a 100% absence rate during that period. House Republicans hold a narrow majority in the chamber, meaning each member's vote carries significant weight on close legislation.
The Cook Political Report rates New Jersey's 7th Congressional District as a toss-up race. The suburban seat has become one of the most competitive House districts nationally. Kean previously told The New Jersey Globe that his medical issue did not affect his cognitive ability and that he is not dealing with chronic problems that would impact his decision to seek a third term.
The Bottom Line
Kean's return strengthens House Republicans' razor-thin majority as the chamber works to advance must-pass legislation, including defense spending bills. His transparency about mental health marks a notable moment in a legislative body where such discussions remain uncommon.
The congressman enters his re-election campaign with both an electoral challenge and a personal narrative of recovery. Bennett's national security background positions her to contrast her active duty experience against Kean's congressional record and recent absence. With the race rated as a toss-up, both candidates are likely to face intense scrutiny over their qualifications and readiness to serve the district.