Rep. Kay Granger (R-Texas), chairwoman of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, announced on Nov. 1 that she won’t run for reelection.
Ms. Granger, 80, has represented Texas’s 12th congressional district since 1997. Previously, she was the first female mayor of Fort Worth.
“Serving my community has been the greatest honor, and I have always fought to improve the lives of my constituents,” she said in a statement.
Ms. Granger’s district is heavily Republican and, therefore, it’s all but guaranteed that a Republican will succeed her.
“As I announce my decision to not seek reelection, I am encouraged by the next generation of leaders in my district,” she said. “It’s time for the next generation to step up and take the mantle and be a strong and fierce representative for the people.”
Ms. Granger said she will serve the remainder of her term.
The longtime Texas lawmaker became chair of the House Appropriations Committee in January, the first woman in that role, after having been its ranking member for four years. She served between 2007 and 2009 as vice chair of the House GOP conference, a position held by Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) just prior to his winning the gavel for speaker last week.
“I have been able to accomplish more in this life than I could have imagined, and I owe it all to my incredible family, staff, friends, and supporters,” Ms. Granger said.
“The United States of America is the greatest country in the world because of our people and the vision of our Founding Fathers who created a nation that ensures every man, woman, and child has the opportunity to succeed.”
Ms. Granger’s announcement comes as the House seeks to finish the appropriations process. The lower congressional chamber has passed five of the 12 appropriations bills. The government is set to shut down on Nov. 17 following a 45-day continuing resolution that was passed last month to fund the government.
Ms. Granger voted against Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for speaker and even received a vote herself from Rep. Marianette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa). Ms. Granger said she had “a vote of conscience” and “stayed true” to her principles. “Intimidation and threats will not change my position,” she said.
Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (R-Fla.) paid tribute to Ms. Granger after the news of her retirement.
“She stands as one of the most formidable, principled, and influential members of Congress,” he said in a statement.
“Beyond her professional accolades, Kay has served as a guiding mentor and the truest confidante one could hope for. While her absence will leave a profound void, her legacy and contributions will forever endure.”
