Health Concerns Surround Texas Rep. Kay Granger as Retirement Speculation Grows

In a development that has raised eyebrows within political circles, Republican Representative Kay Granger of Texas has been living in a retirement facility for several months, according to a source who spoke with Fox News. Granger, 81, has not participated in a vote since July 24 and has missed over 54% of House votes during recent months. This absence has fueled discussions about her health and the implications of her retirement from Congress. Recent reports had suggested that Granger was residing in a memory care facility, but a source from her office refuted those claims, stating that while she is in a retirement facility, she is not in the memory care unit itself. Granger acknowledged her health challenges in a statement to Fox News, expressing gratitude for the concern shown by her family, friends, and constituents. She indicated that since early September, her health issues have escalated, making trips to Washington increasingly difficult. Having served in Congress since 1997, Granger is known for her role as the first female mayor of Fort Worth and as the former chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee. Her decision not to seek reelection for the upcoming term has left room for speculation about her future and the future of her seat in a Congress where every vote counts, particularly given the GOP's narrow majority. Despite her absence, Granger made a brief return to the Capitol in November for the unveiling of her portrait, an event attended by House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise. The ongoing absence of a prominent Republican figure like Granger has not gone unnoticed, particularly as the GOP navigates a slim House majority where every vote is crucial. Criticism of Granger's extended absence has surfaced from various quarters, including Democratic Representative Ro Khanna of California. Khanna took to social media to lambast what he described as a "gerontocracy" in Congress, arguing that seniority and personal connections have taken precedence over merit and fresh ideas. He called for term limits and reforms to reduce the influence of money in politics, suggesting a need for younger representatives to step into leadership roles. As Granger approaches the end of her congressional career, the questions surrounding her health and the impact of her absence on the legislative process continue to grow. The political landscape is likely to feel the effects of her departure as potential successors begin to emerge and the GOP grapples with its razor-thin majority in the House.