NORTH TEXAS – Former Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price expressed pride for Congresswoman Kay Granger, acknowledging her public disclosure of serious health challenges. Price remarked, “I'm very proud of her for standing up and acknowledging it.” Granger’s health struggles became more visible recently, as her announcement cited unforeseen health issues over the past year, stating, “however, since early September, my health challenges have progressed, making frequent travel to Washington both difficult and unpredictable.”
The concerning situation unfolded after reports indicated Granger, who has represented Texas’s 12th Congressional District since 1996, had not cast her vote since July 24. A report by the Dallas Express highlighted Granger's absence from Congress and suggested she was experiencing dementia. Responding to scrutiny, her family confirmed she resides at Tradition Senior Living, but her son clarified, “It’s not memory care.” He stated his mother felt lonely living alone, prompting her move to the facility, where she remains among active seniors.
Reflecting on her political legacy, Granger's announcement came shortly after the publication raised questions about her ability to fulfill her duties. Texas Republican Party Chairman Abraham George shared concerns, stating, “Honestly, if she was not available, she should have stepped down. Something as serious as this—she should have stepped down.” Critics demanded more transparency from Granger, particularly as her district, representing two million residents, faced significant legislative matters without their representative.
Granger's decision to remain until the end of her term has stirred debate among her peers. Some supporters, like Price, lauded her service, noting her historic role as the first female mayor of Fort Worth and the first Republican woman elected to Congress from Texas. Price emphasized, “She’s been a trailblazer for women… no stronger supporter for the city of Fort Worth and our region.”
Others have questioned the rationale behind her continued presence, voicing doubts over her capacity to represent the district effectively. Tarrant County Republican Chairman Bo French voiced frustration over the lack of representation during urgent votes, stating, “The lack of representation for CD-12 is troubling to say the least.”
Despite the health constraints, Granger’s family insists she remains mentally engaged and is prepared to fulfill her representative duties. Her spokesperson stated, “Kay Granger is not in Memory Care,” adding, “she has been part of leadership discussions and would travel if required for votes.” Observers noted she briefly returned to Washington recently to manage her office closure and participate in ceremonies honoring her contributions.
Throughout her tenure, Granger has been recognized for her work on the House Appropriations Committee, where she was the first woman to serve as chair. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the city of Fort Worth—as a city council member, as mayor, and as a Member of Congress,” she shared, appreciating the support from her staff and constituents.
Concerns surrounding Granger’s transparency echo broader discussions about the effectiveness of older lawmakers amid rising age profiles within Congress. Calls, including those from California Democrat Ro Khanna, have arisen for term limits, emphasizing the need for new generational leaders to rise within political ranks.
Granger plans to retire and will formally close her congressional chapter on January 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in dedication to her constituents and ground-breaking accomplishments for women. Congressman-elect Craig Goldman, who will succeed her, is set to assume office immediately following her departure, entering the position during diverse and challenging legislative times for the region.
Her legacy embodies the changing dynamics for women and local leaders within the political sphere. Despite the challenges she faces, Granger’s impact echoes throughout Texas, symbolizing progressive achievements for women and service to the community over her decades-long career.
