Rep. Kay Granger, R-Texas, has been quietly residing in a Texas memory care facility, igniting a fierce debate over congressional term limits and the oversight of elected officials’ health.

According to the New York Post, Granger, 81, has not voted in Congress for over six months, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and the role of her staff and colleagues in concealing her condition.

The *Dallas Express* first reported that Granger has been living in a retirement facility and experiencing significant cognitive decline.

These revelations coincided with her stepping down from her role as chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, a key position responsible for drafting federal funding legislation.

Granger’s Absence Highlights Broader Concerns

Granger has missed over 54% of congressional votes this year, with her last recorded vote occurring on July 24, 2024. Her absence, coupled with reports of her declining health, has led to criticism of those around her for allegedly failing to prioritize her well-being.

Former Texas state representative Jonathan Stickland claimed that Granger exhibited memory issues as far back as six years ago. He criticized her family and staff for what he described as their failure to protect her and their decision to leave her in office despite her struggles.

Elon Musk weighed in on the controversy, suggesting that cognitive tests should be implemented for elected officials to ensure their fitness for office. “This is getting crazy,” Musk said.

Public Figures Debate Staff Accountability

Granger’s staff, which consists of 25 members, has come under fire for their alleged complicity in keeping her condition private.

Former Department of Education press secretary Angela Morabito expressed outrage, stating that it would have been “hard not to know” about Granger’s struggles, suggesting they played a role in maintaining the status quo.

Utah Senator Mike Lee and California Representative Ro Khanna have also pointed to the situation as evidence supporting the need for term limits in Congress. Khanna criticized the current congressional system, which he described as overly reliant on seniority and personal relationships instead of merit.

Memory Issues Create New Political Questions

The controversy surrounding Granger’s condition has drawn comparisons to past concerns about President Biden’s cognitive abilities.

Kylie Jane Kremer, a conservative activist, emphasized the importance of addressing such issues across party lines, highlighting that these concerns are not isolated.

Progressive journalist Ken Klippenstein shared a video of Granger speaking earlier this year, pointing to visible signs of her cognitive struggles. Klippenstein described the footage as “painful to watch,” drawing further attention to her condition.

Media Acknowledges Missed Oversight

Hans Nichols of Axios admitted that limited journalistic resources contributed to the lack of earlier reporting on Granger’s condition. He acknowledged collective responsibility among members of the media, stating that the issue should have been addressed sooner.

As Granger’s retirement approaches at the end of her term next month, the revelations about her health have spurred broader discussions about the adequacy of oversight in Congress. Critics argue that mechanisms need to be implemented to ensure elected officials are physically and mentally capable of fulfilling their duties.

Broader Implications Of Granger’s Retirement

Granger’s retirement marks the end of a decades-long political career. However, the circumstances surrounding her departure have raised significant questions about the role of staff, family, and colleagues in supporting public servants facing cognitive decline.

Calls for increased transparency in managing health concerns among elected officials have grown louder in the wake of the revelations. The debate has extended beyond party lines, with voices from both progressive and conservative circles advocating for change.

Granger’s situation has underscored the challenges of balancing compassion for individuals with the need for accountability in public service. As discussions about term limits and cognitive testing gain momentum, her story may serve as a pivotal moment in shaping future policies.