Congresswoman Kay Granger praised for her service after announcing she won't run for reelection
FORT WORTH (CBSNewsTexas.com) — It will be an end of a political era in Fort Worth.
After serving in Congress for more than 25 years, Kay Granger has announced she will not run for re-election next year.
In a statement Wednesday morning, Granger said serving her community has been her greatest honor, and that she's encouraged by the next generation of leaders in her district. "It's time for the next generation to step up and take the mantle and be a strong and fierce representative of the people."
Granger served as a lot of firsts: first woman to become Fort Worth mayor when she was elected in 1991; first Republican woman to be elected in Texas, which took place in 1996, and the first woman in the GOP to become chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, which happened last year.
Former Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price paid tribute to Granger.
In an interview with CBS News Texas, Price said, "She was a trailblazer. It's amazing how much of her own time and how much time her family has given. Kay truly is the epitome of a public servant."
Current Mayor Mattie Parker praised Granger in a statement: "She has lead with strength, tenacity, and character both in Congress and during her tenure as our city's mayor, and the lasting impact of her leadership cannot be overstated."
They credit Granger's years of supporting the military and defense industry in North Texas, and her commitment to getting federal funding for the Panther Island flood control project in Fort Worth.
Price said, "The growth at Hillwood and the growth in the aviation and the defense industry has really put Fort Worth on the map and Panther Island will long term, be one that will put us on the map and it's a great legacy project for Kay."
Mike Moncrief also served as Fort Worth's mayor. "She has certainly served us with distinction. She has made Fort Worth a well-known name, not only in the Congressional scene, but everywhere she has traveled. She indeed delivered the goods for those who put her in office."
Ross Perot, Jr., chair of the Perot Group, said in a statement, "Her steadfast commitment has made a lasting impact on our community. Kay Granger is a living legend among us because of her steadfast leadership and the many contributions she has made to this region through her public service."
Congressman Michael Burgess (R-Lewisville) credited Granger for her public service. "Kay is a pioneer who paved the way for the next generation of leaders. I am grateful for her example of selfless service. Kay has made her country and Texas proud."
Congressman Marc Veasey (D-Fort Worth) issued a statement: "Congresswoman Kay Granger has spent decades serving as a trailblazer and a fierce advocate for her constituents here in North Texas. Despite our policy differences, I am incredibly proud to work alongside her to deliver results on a number of key priorities for our shared hometown of Fort Worth. I am grateful to call her a friend, and I wish her all the best in this new chapter."
Republican State Representative Craig Goldman of Fort Worth, Republican Tarrant County Commissioner Manny Ramirez, and Chris Putnam who ran against Granger in the GOP primary in 2020, told CBS News Texas they may run for Granger's seat.
John O'Shea has said he is running.
As for who's not running: Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, former Mayor Betsy Price, and Tarrant County Judge Tim O'Hare all told CBS News Texas they are not interested in Granger's congressional seat.