House Rep. Mark Green Resigns From Congress
U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN) has announced his resignation from Congress, effective July 20, creating new challenges for House Republicans as they attempt to maintain a fragile majority.
Green, a retired Army officer and current chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, did not disclose the nature of his next position but characterized it as the beginning of a “new chapter.”
The resignation will reduce the GOP majority in the House to 219-212, with three vacancies from previously held Democratic seats. While all three are located in reliably blue districts and expected to return to Democratic control, Green’s seat—Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District—leans heavily Republican and is unlikely to shift the balance once filled via special election.
In a formal letter to House leadership and a video message released over the weekend, Green said, “It is with a heavy heart that I am here to say farewell.” He cited over three decades of public service, including military deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, his tenure in the Tennessee State Senate, and three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Green noted the symbolic significance of announcing his departure on Independence Day. “Tennessee will forever be home,” he said. “As a congressman, you trusted me to be your voice in Washington. I will always be grateful.”
During his tenure, Green was instrumental in shaping the border security provisions of the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill,” which was signed into law on July 4. He also led the House Homeland Security Committee in drafting and passing the Secure the Border Act, legislation he described as the strongest of its kind ever to pass the House.
Green referenced the committee’s historic impeachment proceedings targeting the previous Homeland Security Secretary, calling it a “clear message to President Biden” that immigration laws must be upheld.
His resignation leaves House Speaker Mike Johnson with virtually no room for error as Congress approaches key legislative battles, including a likely government funding showdown in the fall. The Republican conference may also face complications in advancing additional legislation through the budget reconciliation process without Democratic support.
Green has not disclosed the nature of his next role but confirmed that he will exit public office later this month, ending a 36-year career in military and government service.