Kay Granger, a prominent Republican figure who represented Texas’s 12th Congressional District for over two decades, passed away at the age of 83. Granger’s political career was marked by several historic milestones, most notably her tenure as the first woman to lead the powerful House Appropriations Committee. Before entering federal politics, she served as the first female mayor of Fort Worth, Texas, establishing a reputation for pragmatic governance that she carried into her time in Washington.

Throughout her career, Granger was recognized for her focus on defense spending and regional infrastructure projects in North Texas. House Speaker Mike Johnson publicly acknowledged her passing on social media, highlighting her role in paving the way for future generations of women in public service. While her legislative record was generally aligned with mainstream Republican fiscal policy, she was often noted for her ability to navigate complex budget negotiations. Her departure from the House earlier this year marked the end of a significant era for the Texas delegation, as she was one of the longest-serving Republicans in the chamber. Colleagues from both sides of the aisle have begun to issue statements reflecting on her influence and her commitment to her constituents in the Fort Worth area.