FORT WORTH - Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-Fort Worth), who has represented Texas' 12th District since 1997, has announced her retirement, citing significant health challenges over the last year. The 81-year-old congresswoman has been absent from Capitol Hill for several months and is now residing at Tradition Senior Living, where sources say she is not receiving memory care but rather is living independently to engage socially with peers her age.
Granger's health has reportedly worsened since early September, making it increasingly difficult for her to make the commute to Washington, D.C. According to her office, "I have been 'navigatng some unforeseen health challenges over the past year,'" but specifics about her condition have not been disclosed.
With her last vote occurring on July 24, 2024, Granger missed over half of the House votes this year, totaling 279 of 517. This number surpasses the total votes she missed during her first decade of service, showing how her health has impacted her ability to fulfill her duties. A stark comparison can be drawn from her performance last year, where she only missed 32 votes.
Her son, Brandon Granger, mentioned to the Dallas Morning News, "She is not in memory care," explicitly addressing the confusion surrounding her living arrangements. He noted she made the move to be more active socially, as her health continues to evolve.
Granger's absence and health difficulties have raised questions among the public and media. For much of her career, she has been regarded as one of Texas' most influential politicians, having served as the first Republican woman elected to represent the state and as chairwoman of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.
After announcing her intent not to seek re-election, she stated it was time for new leadership to emerge, indicating the need for generational change within Congress. Her seat will be filled by Texas State Representative Craig Goldman when the new Congress reconvenes in January 2025.
Throughout her career, Granger's commitment to her constituents and the power dynamics within Congress has earned her respect, with many viewing her leadership as instrumental during her tenure. Following her path reveal's the complex issue of aging political leaders facing health challenges, which has become increasingly prominent as representatives grow older.
The dynamics of aging leaders have come under scrutiny, especially with the example set by President Joe Biden, who withdrew from his re-election bid amid concerns related to his age and health. Likewise, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell recently stepped down from leadership after health-related incidents raised alarms about his fitness for leadership. This trend sparks broader discussions among the electorate about the fitness of aging lawmakers.
Granger's case has highlighted these tensions as she wraps up her career, with more than 28 years serving the people of Texas. "Her health challenges progressed making frequent travel to Washington both difficult and unpredictable," was echoed through statements from her office.
The reality of her declining health reflects the weight of public office, as only time seems to tell how legislators manage their well-being alongside responsibilities. According to GovTrack.us, over the entirety of her congressional career, Granger missed 1,312 out of 17,901 votes, averaging 7.3% missed votes. This figure contrasts sharply with the median missed vote rate of 2.2% among currently serving representatives.
Now with just months left before the end of her tenure, Granger's retirement story reflects not only personal health challenges but also the evolution of political leadership. It emerges as a poignant reminder of the challenges older leaders face and the shifts voters may demand as younger representatives push for change.
Granger's contributions to Congress extend beyond her votes and leadership roles; her presence signified the rise of women in politics within Texas, paving the way for future generations. Granger's legacy will be felt beyond her time on Capitol Hill as constituents look to the future with Goldman poised to take her place.
