Former Rep. Kay Granger Remembered as a Trailblazer for Women

Former Representative Kay Granger of Texas passed away on Sunday at 83. Her colleagues remembered her as a pioneer who paved the way for women in politics. Granger made history by becoming the first woman elected as mayor of Fort Worth, Texas. She was also the first Republican woman from Texas elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and served as the first female Republican chair of the Appropriations Committee.

Granger served in the U.S. House from 1997 until her retirement in January of the previous year. Her departure was due to health challenges and prolonged absences from Washington. After her death, Republican lawmakers recalled her contributions as a trailblazer.

“Kay Granger dedicated her life to serving her Fort Worth, Texas community,” House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana stated. “Her roles included being a teacher, businesswoman, member of the Fort Worth Zoning Commission and City Council, Mayor, and Congresswoman for nearly three decades. She also led the House Appropriations Committee. Throughout her career, she broke barriers for women in public service.”