Opponents Had A “Field Day” On New Jersey Cong. Tom Kean, Jr.

United States Congressman Tom Kean, Jr., from New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District delivered a deeply personal speech from the floor of The House of Representatives, yesterday.

“I Was Given The Diagnosis of Depression”

I'm a private person by nature, so sharing my story wasn't easy. But if speaking openly about what I've been through helps even one person know they're not alone, then it was worth it. I'm deeply grateful for the prayers, kindness, and support I've received. I'm healthier, stronger, and more determined than ever to serve the people of New Jersey's Seventh District. Thank you. I'm honored to be back. Let's get to work, said Kean.

Tom Kean, Jr., Brief Electoral Biography

Tom Kean, Jr. was first elected to office in 2001, to the New Jersey General Assembly. In 2003, he was elected to the New Jersey State Senate. Tom Kean, Jr. was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 2022 for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

That’s 25 consecutive years of honorable and faithful elective public service.

Opponents Were Cruel & Relentless In Their Daily Attacks Against Tom Kean, Jr.

Tom Kean, Jr. deserved better when he stepped aside several months ago to deal with an undisclosed health matter.

It’s easy to criticize Kean for not revealing the cause of his absence to the public. This gave his disloyal opposition and other critics the opportunity to play political “Whack-A-Mole” with him.

I Have Known Tom Kean, Jr. For More Than 25 Years — He’s A Good Man & Friend

Politics ain’t beanbag, everyone understands that. It’s a full contact sport that is not for the faint of heart. If you prefer safe and familiar things, politics is not for you.

And, political opponents should continue to hold United States Congressman Tom Kean Jr. accountable for his public record, votes, and the various decisions that he has made while in office.

However, they should immediately stop with the personal attacks. A diagnosis of depression deserves empathy and respect, regardless of political party.

This is a matter of basic human decency: you can criticize policies and leadership — what you can’t do is criticize a medical condition or someone for seeking treatment.

Tom Kean, Jr. should be judged on his performance in office, and his diagnosis of depression should never be treated as a political weapon.