GOP Rep. Tom Kean says depression diagnosis caused months-long absence from Congress

U.S. Rep. Thomas Kean Jr. (R-NJ) (C) arrives at the U.S. Capitol with his wife Rhonda Kean (R) on June 30, 2026 in Washington, DC. Anna Moneymaker | Getty Images Rep. Tom Kean Jr. , R-N.J., said Tuesday that he was diagnosed with depression, explaining a months-long absence from Congress that had become a political liability in one of the nation's most competitive House districts in the 2026 midterm elections . Kean, a second-term Republican who represents New Jersey's 7th District, had not cast a House vote since March 5 and missed more than 140 votes while he was away from Washington. His absence drew increasing questions as it lengthened without explanation. His office had previously described the absence only as a personal medical issue. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.