Republican US lawmaker Tom Kean Jr says depression caused mystery months-long absence

• US Congressman Tom Kean Jr revealed his months-long absence was due to hospitalisation for depression, a condition he described as both physical and emotional.
• His absence complicated Republican efforts in the closely divided House, as he missed over 100 days and many key votes.
• Kean urged others struggling with depression to seek help, emphasising that "asking for help is not a weakness, it is a strength."

WASHINGTON - US Congressman Tom Kean Jr returned to Washington on June 30 after a mysterious months-long absence – revealing that he had been hospitalised for depression.

Kean, a vulnerable New Jersey Republican seeking a third term in November’s midterm elections, had been away from the House of Representatives for more than 100 days, missing dozens of votes as his party tried to steer legislation through a narrowly divided chamber.

“Several months ago, due to health concerns, I entered the hospital for some testing. I did not believe that this would result in a long-term stay. I was given the diagnosis of depression,” Kean said, in a speech on the House floor.

“Now, when people hear the word depression, many people think simply feel it means feeling sad, but depression is so much more than that. It is physical, it is emotional, and until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be.”

The 57-year-old said doctors advised him to remain in hospital, and that while he had initially expected to return within weeks, his recovery took longer than anticipated.

His absence had fuelled speculation in New Jersey and Washington after his office said only that he was dealing with a personal medical issue and would make a full recovery.

The son of former New Jersey governor Tom Kean Sr, the congressman represents one of the most competitive Republican-held districts in the country.

The prolonged absence complicated life for Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, whose party has only a slim majority and can afford few defections or missing votes on partisan legislation.

Kean said he was now “healthier, stronger and excited to return to the work that I love” – and urged others struggling with depression to seek help.

“Asking for help is not a weakness,” Kean said. “It is a strength.” AFP