FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — Veteran Republican U.S. Representative Kay Granger of Texas is currently facing unexpected health challenges that have intensified in the closing months of her distinguished over two-decade tenure in Congress, according to a statement issued by her office on Monday.
At 81 years old, Granger has been absent from casting votes in Washington since July. In a communiqué released by her office, Granger acknowledged grappling with undisclosed health issues over the past year. However, she refrained from divulging specific details. “Nevertheless, as of early September, my health obstacles have advanced, making regular travel to Washington arduous and uncertain,” the statement read.
Queries emailed on Monday regarding Granger’s health condition and the rationale behind not previously disclosing her well-being were left unanswered by her office. Attempts to reach out to Granger’s family for comment were also unsuccessful.
In a decision made in 2023, Granger declared that she would not pursue reelection, emphasizing the need for a new wave of leaders to take the reins. Furthermore, in March of this year, she disclosed her intention to step down as the chair of the influential House Appropriations Committee.
Initially elected to represent Texas’ 12th Congressional District in 1996, Granger marked a historic milestone as the first Republican woman to secure a seat representing the state in the U.S. House. Prior to her congressional tenure, she served as the mayor of Fort Worth.
Come January, Granger’s vacated seat will be filled by Republican Craig Goldman, a former member of the Texas House, who emerged victorious in the district encompassing segments of Fort Worth, western Tarrant County, and a significant portion of neighboring Parker County.
