Tom Kean Jr., a Republican representing a New Jersey swing district, last voted on March 5 before a four-month absence from Congress. He re-emerged on Tuesday to deliver a floor speech after hospitalization for health concerns and a depression diagnosis. His office attributed the absence to a personal health matter in late April.
“Republican returns to US House after months of absence over ‘depression’”
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Kean’s disclosure after depression treatment highlights the need for destigmatization and expanded public mental health funding across party lines.
“Structural policy changes and workplace accommodations”
The congressman handled a private health matter and returned to duties, reflecting resilience rather than systemic excuses or public advocacy.
“Individual recovery and legislative responsibility”
Kean exercised personal autonomy over medical decisions and privacy without government involvement or mandated disclosure.
“Bodily sovereignty and voter judgment at the ballot box”
All prior views accept unverified self-reported diagnosis and overlook institutional accountability gaps in an elected role.
“Information asymmetry for voters and potential use of health claims to avoid scrutiny”
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Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Returns to House After Four-Month Absence Following Depression Diagnosis You are here