Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., on Newsmax Monday called for an age limit for members of Congress in light of revelations about Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas. Granger has been absent from voting since July due to cognitive decline, leaving her constituents unrepresented.
The age of Congress members is once again a focal point of national debate following revelations about 81-year-old Granger.
Similarly, White House aides reportedly worked to shield President Joe Biden's apparent cognitive challenges from public view since the beginning of his presidency, adjusting his schedule and managing appearances following instances of disorganized performances, according to a report released Thursday, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Granger's son recently confirmed to The Dallas Morning News that his mother has been dealing with "some dementia issues late in the year" and is now living in an assisted living facility in Fort Worth.
Malliotakis addressed the issue on "The Chris Salcedo Show," expressing shock over the situation and criticizing the lack of transparency. "This story actually astounds me," Malliotakis said. "To be honest, I didn't even know that she was missing."
Malliotakis pointed out that it can be difficult to track attendance with so many members in the chamber, but the length of Granger's absence raised serious concerns. "It was shocking to me that this individual, our congresswoman colleague, did not vote since July," she said. "That in itself, I think, is very problematic. And she was collecting a paycheck. I think that money needs to be returned to the Treasury for sure."
The New York congresswoman was critical of Granger's staff, who continued to post on her social media accounts, creating the impression that she was still active in her role. "The staff has been defrauding the public by putting up those types of posts, acting as if everything was OK," Malliotakis said. "It really is, I think, outrageous."
Granger's situation highlights broader issues about the demands of congressional service and the need for fitness to perform its duties. Malliotakis suggested that Congress should consider imposing age limits to prevent similar scenarios in the future.
"Maybe there is an age limit that is needed," she said. "So we don't have these elder individuals who are not mentally or physically fit to be able to do their jobs."
"I feel sad about her situation and that she has a cognitive decline," she added.
"It's very demanding to be a member of Congress, to not just represent and make tough decisions on behalf of your constituents, but the travel," she explained. "I don't think you're getting the best representation if you don't have somebody who's capable of doing the job."
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Jim Thomas ✉
Jim Thomas is a writer based in Indiana. He holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science, a law degree from U.I.C. Law School, and has practiced law for more than 20 years.
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