Rep. Granger: I've Had 'Unforeseen Health Challenges'

Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, who has been absent from Capitol Hill for months, said she has been facing "unforeseen health challenges this year," but her son denied claims she is in a memory care facility for dementia.

"I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of care and concern over the past several days," Granger, 81, said in a statement emailed to The Hill on Sunday. "As many of my family, friends, and colleagues have known, I have been navigating some unforeseen health challenges over the past year. However, since early September, my health challenges have progressed, making frequent travel to Washington both difficult and unpredictable."

Granger's statement followed a report from The Dallas Express on Friday that focused on her monthslong absence from Capitol Hill. The Express reported that Granger had been living in a memory care and assisted living facility after having been found confused and wandering in her former neighborhood.

Her residency at the senior living facility was confirmed by three of its employees, according to the Express, with the assistant executive director telling the outlet the facility is "her home."

"In November, I was able to return to D.C. to hold meetings on behalf of my constituents, express my gratitude to my staff, and oversee the closure of my Washington office," Granger said. "It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the city of Fort Worth — as a city council member, as mayor, and as a member of Congress. Thank you for your continued prayers and support that you have extended to me."

According to The Dallas Morning News, Granger's son, Brandon Granger, said Sunday that she has been "having some dementia issues late in the year."

Brandon Granger said his mother is living at Tradition Senior Living in Fort Worth but is not in a memory care facility. The community has a memory care facility on the same property, but Granger resides in the independent living facility, he said.

"There's nothing wrong with someone wanting to live in a community with other folks their age," Brandon Granger told the Morning News. "She's in a building with a lot of other folks her age that are super active that she really loves. She has exercise classes, she gets to be around people all the time, it's wonderful for her for this point in life."

Granger announced in November 2023 she would not seek reelection. The last time she cast a vote on the House floor was July 24.

"As I announce my decision to not seek re-election, I am encouraged by the next generation of leaders in my district," Granger said previously. "It's time for the next generation to step up and take the mantle and be a strong and fierce representative for the people."

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