Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., recently revealed that his extended absence from Congress was due to treatment for depression. Kean had been missing House votes for months before returning on Tuesday.

Call for Transparency

Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., emphasized the importance of transparency among public officials, stating that they have an obligation to be honest about lengthy absences. Torres, who has lived with depression, expressed sympathy for those struggling with mental illness and highlighted the value of taking a medical leave.

Kean disclosed the reason for his absence during a House floor speech, noting that he did not expect his hospital visit to result in a long-term stay. He emphasized that there is no timeline for healing and recovery from depression, and that it requires daily effort to get better.

Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., commented on Kean’s announcement, stating that while compassion is warranted, being in Congress is not a right and that the needs of the district should be prioritized.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.