Kay Granger, Trailblazing Republican Woman from Texas, Passes Away at 83
Former Representative Kay Granger, the first Republican woman from Texas elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, has died at the age of 83. Her son, J.D. Granger, announced her passing on Sunday. Granger was a pioneering figure in Texas politics, having served as the first female Mayor of Fort Worth and later as the first Republican woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee. House Speaker Mike Johnson paid tribute to Granger, highlighting her barrier-breaking career and dedication to public service. Granger was known for her focus on defense spending, particularly advocating for the production of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter in Fort Worth. She retired in January 2025 after nearly three decades in Congress, citing health challenges.