U.S. Representative Ken Calvert (R-Corona) responded to the announcement by U.S. Representative Kay Granger (R-Texas) of her decision to step down from the chair position for the House Appropriations Committee. He praised Granger for her dedication and service. According to a press release issued by Calvert's office on March 22, he has already identified a potential successor for Granger.
"First, I want to thank Chairwoman Granger for her leadership, her guidance over the years, and her unwavering support of our men and women in uniform,” the congressman said," said Calvert. "She has been a fierce conservative who has delivered countless wins for our Conference and for our country. I respect her decision to standdown as Chairwoman but I am grateful she will still be on the committee to provide guidance and support,” Calvert said."
Granger's official congressional biography reveals that she represents Texas's 12th congressional district, encompassing much of Parker County and the western half of Tarrant County. She assumed the chair position in 2022 and is recognized as an influential conservative leader.
The Texas Tribune reported that with Granger's resignation, only three Texas lawmakers remain in chairmanship positions: Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-Lubbock), Budget Committee; Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Austin), Foreign Affairs; and Rep. Roger Williams (R-Weatherford); Small Business.
The Texas Tribune also reported that last year, Granger announced she would not seek another term but plans to return to the education sector instead. Throughout her tenure in Congress, she has been a staunch supporter of the military.
According to Calvert's press release, he proposes Oklahoma congressman Tom Cole as Granger's replacement. "Tom is a friend, a scholar, a conservative, and a patriot," said Calvert. "There is no better person to carry on the important work of our committee than Tom Cole and I look forward to his selection as the next Chairman."