After decades of public service, Representative Kay Granger faces severe health challenges.
Rep. Kay Granger, an experienced Texas lawmaker, has retreated from her Congressional duties due to a significant deterioration in her health after moving to a retirement community, Fox News reported.
Brandon Granger, son of the 81-year-old congresswoman, emphasized the swift and troubling progression of her health issues, pointing out signs of dementia that surfaced in recent months.
There have been conflicting reports about whether Kay Granger resides in a memory care unit or an independent living apartment within the same facility. While some initial reports suggested Granger needed specialized care, a staff source denied these claims, specifying that she lived independently.
Her son also refuted rumors about her condition and residence, calling the misinformation spread concerning his mother "a load of bulls–t."
Notwithstanding her health challenges, Kay Granger returned to Capitol Hill in November. This brief reappearance was for a special occasion— the unveiling of her portrait, celebrating her tenure as Chairwoman of the Appropriations Committee.
Kay Granger's deteriorating health has had a noticeable impact on her attendance in Congress. With her last vote cast on July 24, she was notably absent for more than half the votes in this year's sessions.
This diminished capacity led to her decision not to seek re-election. Representative Craig Goldman is set to succeed her in January, following her formal retirement from Congress.
Kay Granger, the first female mayor of Fort Worth and a Congressional member since 1997, acknowledged her difficulties in managing her role amidst declining health. In a heartfelt statement, she addressed the unreliability of her condition and the resulting travel complications.
Despite her health difficulties, Granger's office praised her continued commitment to service. Offering sincere thanks to her staff, she mentioned, "During this time, my incredible staff has remained steadfast, continuing to deliver exceptional constituent services, as they have for the past 27 years."
As many of my family, friends, and colleagues have known, I have been navigating some unforeseen health challenges over the past year. However, since early September, my health challenges have progressed making frequent travel to Washington both difficult and unpredictable. During this time, my incredible staff has remained steadfast, continuing to deliver exceptional constituent services, as they have for the past 27 years.
Kay Granger's mark on Texas politics stretches from her trailblazing role as Fort Worth's first female mayor to her influential positions in the U.S. House. Her commitment has been unwavering, despite the increasing difficulties imposed by her health.
In light of her retirement and health issues, Granger has managed to reflect on and contribute to her legacy, ensuring her work continues through her capable staff.
The situation holds significant implications not only for her constituents but also for the broader landscape of U.S. politics, as it anticipates the transition of representation for her district.