In a move that has captured national attention, Republican congressman Mark Green—representing Tennessee’s 7th district and serving as Chair of the House Homeland Security Committee—has announced his resignation from Congress following the House’s next vote on President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending bill. The news, confirmed Monday, June 9, 2025, marks a significant shift in the balance of power on Capitol Hill and signals the end of an era for one of the House’s most influential Republican voices on border security and conservative fiscal policy.
Green’s decision to step down comes after nearly four terms in office and a career spanning nearly four decades in public service, including military deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and prior roles in the Tennessee legislature. In a heartfelt public statement, Green cited a “too exciting to pass up” private sector opportunity as the primary reason for his departure. He emphasized that he would remain in office long enough to ensure the final passage of the GOP’s major domestic policy package, which he helped shepherd through the House as a key architect of its border security provisions.
A Narrowing Republican Majority
With Mark Green’s resignation, the Republican majority in the House will shrink to 219-212, leaving Speaker Mike Johnson with only a three-vote cushion on party-line legislation. This razor-thin margin heightens the stakes for every upcoming vote, as the loss of even a few Republican votes could derail major initiatives. Green’s absence will be felt acutely in the Homeland Security Committee, which he chaired and where he played a central role in shaping Trump’s immigration and border policies.
Green’s leadership was instrumental in passing the Secure the Border Act (H.R. 2), described as the strongest border security legislation ever to clear the House. He also led the effort to impeach former Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, making headlines for his aggressive oversight of the Biden administration’s border management. His departure leaves a coveted vacancy at the helm of a committee that remains a focal point of national debate.
The timing of Green’s exit is no coincidence. By waiting to resign until after the House’s final vote on the “big, beautiful bill,” as Trump has called it, Green ensures that his vote will be counted on this landmark legislation. The bill, which includes historic tax cuts and sweeping changes to federal spending, is currently in the Senate, where it faces amendments. Once the Senate acts, the House will vote again, and only then will Green officially step down.
The Road Ahead: A Special Election and Political Shifts
Under Tennessee law, Governor Bill Lee must call a special election within 10 days of the official vacancy, with the general election to be held between 100 and 107 days after that. The seat is considered safely Republican, as Donald Trump won the district by 22 points in the last election. Still, the process will leave the House with a vacancy for several months, adding another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile legislative environment.
Mark Green’s resignation is notable not only for its immediate political impact but also for the personal journey it represents. Green had previously announced his intention to retire at the end of the last Congress, only to reverse course after encouragement from constituents and a personal appeal from former President Trump. His decision to stay on through the current session was driven by a desire to see Trump’s border security priorities enacted—a mission he now considers accomplished.
Green’s legacy in Congress is defined by his unwavering commitment to conservative values, his leadership on national security issues, and his willingness to take on tough fights. His work on tax reform, border security, and defense of life has earned him respect on both sides of the aisle, even as he remained a staunch critic of Democratic policies.
What Mark Green’s Departure Means for Congress and the Country
The departure of Mark Green from Congress is more than just a personnel change—it is a pivotal moment for the Republican Party and for the nation. His leadership on key issues has shaped the legislative agenda and set the tone for debates on immigration, taxation, and national security. As the GOP looks to maintain its fragile majority, the loss of a reliable vote and a respected committee chair will require careful navigation by party leaders.
For voters in Tennessee’s 7th district, the focus now turns to the upcoming special election and the search for a new representative who can carry forward Green’s legacy. For the rest of the country, Green’s resignation is a reminder of the ever-shifting landscape of American politics and the personal sacrifices made by those who serve in Congress.
As the House prepares for its final vote on the Trump tax and spending bill, all eyes will be on Mark Green—one last time—as he casts his ballot and passes the torch to the next generation of leaders. His story is a testament to the power of public service and the enduring importance of principled leadership in times of uncertainty.
Stay informed about the latest developments in Congress and follow the special election process in Tennessee’s 7th district. Your voice matters—make sure it’s heard.