NJ Rep Kean returns to Capitol Hill, says medical condition causing long absence was depression

Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., said Tuesday that the mystery illness that kept him away from Congress for so long was depression. 

"I'm grateful that I accepted help, because today I stand before you stronger, healthier and excited to return to the work that I love," Kean said in an emotional speech on the House floor, Fox News reported. 

Kean said the diagnosis came when he entered the hospital for "some testing," and the depression left him under the doctors' care while he spent months recovering. 

Kean told supporters in April that he would return to Capitol Hill on a full schedule "very soon," after he disappeared for weeks because of a medical issue. Kean last voted on March 5, and he has missed more than 140 votes since. 

The lawmaker had not provided details on the health issue prior to Tuesday's speech, only saying it is "personal." 

House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters earlier this month that Kean had told him the nature of his medical issue. Johnson said Kean was in "good spirits" and that he will honor Kean's request not to reveal the medical condition that caused the absence. 

"It’s not a scandalous thing at all," the Louisiana lawmaker said. "People deal with health issues. Maybe that’s a newsflash for you, but even members of Congress get sick as well."