Former U.S. Congresswoman Kay Granger, First Republican Woman Elected from Texas, Dies at 83

WASHINGTON: Kay Granger, the first Republican woman elected from Texas to the U.S. House of Representatives and a pioneering figure in American politics, has died at the age of 83, her family confirmed on Sunday.

Granger served nearly three decades in Congress after first winning election in 1996, representing Texas’ 12th Congressional District until her retirement in January 2025. Before entering national politics, she made history as the first woman elected mayor of Fort Worth, Texas, establishing herself as one of the state’s most influential Republican leaders.

During her congressional career, Granger became the first Republican woman to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee, overseeing federal spending and playing a key role in shaping U.S. budget priorities. She was also a strong advocate for defense programs, including support for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter manufactured in Fort Worth.

Her son, J.D. Granger, confirmed her passing but did not disclose the cause of death. Granger had announced in 2024 that she would not seek re-election, citing worsening health challenges during the final months of her congressional service.

Paying tribute, House Speaker Mike Johnson described Granger as a trailblazer who “broke barriers for women in public service” and said she would be “greatly missed.” Leaders from both Republican and Democratic parties also praised her dedication to public service and her lasting contributions to the U.S. Congress.