FORT WORTH, Texas – Kay Granger, the veteran Republican Representative from Texas, is facing unexpected health issues that have deteriorated during the closing months of her lengthy tenure in Congress, as indicated by a statement from her office on Monday.

At 81 years old, Granger has been absent from voting in Washington since July. In her statement, she acknowledged that she has been contending with “unforeseen health challenges” for the past year without providing specific details.

The statement further elaborated, “However, since early September, my health challenges have progressed, making frequent travel to Washington both difficult and unpredictable.” The office did not quickly address queries sent via email on Monday regarding her health status or the reasons for not disclosing this information earlier. Attempts to contact Granger’s family for additional details were also met with silence.

In a previous announcement made earlier in 2023, Granger revealed her intention not to pursue reelection, emphasizing that it was time for new generations of leadership to emerge. Additionally, in March, she declared her decision to resign from her position as chair of the House Appropriations Committee, a significant post within the legislative framework.

Granger first entered Congress representing Texas’ 12th district in 1996, making history as the first Republican woman from Texas to serve in the U.S. House. Prior to her congressional career, she was the mayor of Fort Worth.

As Granger exits, her position will be filled by Republican Craig Goldman, a former member of the Texas House, who will take office in January. His district encompasses parts of Fort Worth, as well as western Tarrant County and the majority of Parker County.