WASHINGTON — Former U.S. Rep. Kay Granger, a pioneering Texas Republican who spent nearly three decades in Congress and became one of the most influential lawmakers on federal spending, has died at the age of 83, congressional leaders announced Sunday.
Granger, who represented Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives for 28 years, was widely respected on both sides of the aisle for her leadership, particularly during her tenure as chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., announced her death in a tribute posted on X, describing Granger as a devoted public servant whose legacy would have a lasting impact on Congress and the state of Texas.
“A dear friend who will be greatly missed,” Johnson wrote. “Throughout her career, she broke barriers for women in public service. She was the first woman to serve as Mayor of Fort Worth, the first Republican woman elected to represent Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives, and the first Republican woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee.”
Johnson praised Granger’s decades of public service, highlighting her commitment to fiscal responsibility, national security, and bipartisan cooperation during her years in office.
A Historic Political Career
Before arriving in Washington, Granger made history in Texas politics by becoming the first female mayor of Fort Worth, serving from 1991 to 1995. Her leadership at the local level helped establish her reputation as a pragmatic and effective public official, paving the way for her successful congressional campaign.
She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1996, representing Texas’ 12th Congressional District. During her 14 terms in Congress, Granger became one of the state’s most influential Republican lawmakers and developed a reputation for working across party lines while advocating for conservative fiscal policies.
Her rise culminated in her appointment as chair of the House Appropriations Committee, making her the first Republican woman to lead the panel responsible for overseeing federal government spending. The committee plays a central role in drafting annual funding legislation for federal agencies and programs.
Leadership on Capitol Hill
As Appropriations Committee chair, Granger oversaw negotiations on major government funding bills and frequently worked with lawmakers from both parties to prevent government shutdowns and secure bipartisan budget agreements.
Throughout her congressional career, she served on several key committees and championed issues including defense, infrastructure, veterans’ services, and economic development. She also advocated for projects benefiting North Texas while supporting broader national priorities.
Colleagues often described her as a thoughtful negotiator who earned respect through her knowledge of the federal budget process and her willingness to engage in bipartisan discussions.
Tributes Pour In
Following news of her death, lawmakers from both parties shared tributes recognizing Granger’s groundbreaking career and contributions to public service.
Many praised her as a mentor to younger members of Congress and noted the barriers she broke for women seeking leadership positions in government.
Her achievements extended beyond legislative accomplishments. By becoming the first Republican woman from Texas elected to Congress and later the first Republican woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, Granger helped pave the way for future generations of female leaders in the Republican Party.
Lasting Legacy
Granger retired from Congress after nearly three decades of service, leaving behind a legacy defined by public leadership, fiscal policymaking, and historic firsts. Her influence on federal appropriations and Texas politics made her one of the state’s most prominent political figures.
Although the cause of death was not immediately disclosed, tributes continued to pour in Sunday from current and former lawmakers, who remembered Granger not only for her legislative accomplishments but also for her professionalism, integrity, and dedication to serving the public.
Her death marks the end of a distinguished career that reshaped opportunities for women in politics and left a lasting imprint on both Texas and the U.S. Congress.
