Longtime Texas Republican Rep. Kay Granger, 81, has been absent from crucial House votes since July, amid reports of residing in a retirement community specializing in dementia care.
The New York Post reported that Granger, who has represented her Texas district since 1997, last participated in a vote in Washington, D.C., in July. As of December 2024, she has not cast any votes in critical congressional decisions, leading to rising concerns among constituents and official
Reports emerged from The Dallas Express indicating that Granger was residing in a retirement community's memory care unit.
Her son, along with her spokesperson, refuted these claims, emphasizing instead that she lived in an independent living facility because of feelings of loneliness and boredom. Signs of potential dementia reportedly surfaced over the past few months, although these remain unconfirmed by her family.
Granger previously expressed readiness to return to Washington for significant voting sessions. Amid these circumstances, she resigned as chair of the House Appropriations Committee in March, further intensifying speculation about her health.
Local leaders and voters in Granger’s district have voiced their concerns regarding her voting absence. Tarrant County Republican Chairman Bo French highlighted her absence during pivotal votes involving major issues like the debt ceiling, disaster relief, and farm bills.
French stated that Granger's lack of presence disenfranchises the 2 million people she represents, asserting, "We deserve better."
Rolando Garcia, a State Republican Executive Committeeman, expressed similar concerns, suggesting Granger was already in decline during her 2022 re-election campaign. He noted that her current state was a grim end to her political career, adding, “It’s a sad commentary on the congressional gerontocracy."
The situation is particularly pressing given the Republican Party's slim majority in the House, making every vote crucial. This has intensified the scrutiny on Granger’s extended absence and the impact on legislative outcomes.
Some constituents suggest that Congressman-elect Craig Goldman should be sworn in early to ensure representation.
Hollie Plemons, a constituent, noted the disconnect between public service obligations and Granger's personal challenges. Plemons emphasized that while Granger has been appreciated for her service, now the focus should be on the country’s well-being.
If Granger had retired by September, it would have necessitated a special election. Yet, with Congress' recesses in August and October, her absences raised fewer alarms until pressing legislative sessions brought the issue to the forefront.
Granger’s aides have assured that she has maintained communication with leadership, reiterating her commitment despite her declining health. This assurance, however, has not mitigated the dissatisfaction among her constituents and local Republican leaders.
Through a spokesperson, Granger released statements acknowledging her health issues, stating, "since early September, my health challenges have progressed making frequent travel to Washington both difficult and unpredictable."
The concern for her health, prompted by various reports, remains a prevalent issue in public discourse surrounding her current situation.
Brandon Granger, her son, has consistently refuted the narrative regarding his mother's health status as portrayed by the media. He confirmed she resides in an independent living community that offers a more engaging lifestyle suitable for her current requirements.
Despite this assurance, the absence of a decisive Republican vote has highlighted the necessity for full representation, whether by Granger or her successor. Her staff's presence on the payroll until January 3 is a point of contention among those advocating for immediate administrative transitions.
Last month, Granger participated in a portrait unveiling alongside prominent House leaders, showcasing her enduring recognition in Congress. Yet, this ceremonial appearance did little to alleviate the rising concern over her lack of participation in legislative matters.
