US Representative Tom Kean Jr, a Republican from New Jersey, returned to the Capitol on Tuesday after a nearly four-month absence.
He revealed he had been hospitalized and diagnosed with clinical depression.
Kean had not cast a vote in the House of Representatives since March 5.
His absence created widespread speculation and complicated the Republican party's narrow control of the chamber.
Diagnosis and Hospital Stay
"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.
The New Jersey lawmaker, who represents a highly competitive swing district, explained that his prolonged medical stay was necessary.
Doctors recommended he remain in the hospital to address the severity of his newly diagnosed mental health condition.
"They explained to me that this would be the fastest way to recover, and to be honest, I was hesitant.
I didn’t think that I had time for it," Kean added.
Kean noted that his initial estimates in late April regarding a quick return were based on limited understanding.
"When I first informed the public that I was dealing with a medical issue, I was still trying to understand what was happening myself.
When I said I hope to return in a matter of weeks, I believed it," he said.
The congressman added that treatment timelines for mental illnesses are unpredictable. He referenced the tens of millions of Americans navigating similar clinical health paths.
"Those were the best estimates the doctors could provide, but as the over 48 million of my fellow Americans being treated for this illness have come to discover, there is no timeline for healing," Kean said.
While Democrats criticized Kean for executing stock trades during his absence, the lawmaker expressed optimism about resuming his legislative duties.
"I am grateful that I accepted help, because today I stand before you healthier, stronger, and excited to return to the work that I love," he said.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson addressed the situation prior to Kean's floor speech.
He confirmed he had pushed the New Jersey representative to be more transparent about his medical leave.
"There’s no conspiracy involved in this, there’s nothing scandalous at all. He has a health condition, as he said," Johnson said.
The House Speaker acknowledged that while the situation was entirely health-related, he personally would have approached public communication differently.
"If it were me, I would have been more specific about that, and I encouraged him to be," Johnson added.
