Congressman Mark Green Steps Down on Independence Day to Launch Private Sector Mission

U.S. Representative Mark Green, a Republican from Tennessee, has officially resigned from Congress, making the announcement on Friday, July 4, a date he intentionally selected to symbolize a new chapter of independence and service. Green, who has been serving as Chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, confirmed that he is stepping away from public office to pursue a venture in the private sector aimed at addressing global competition challenges.

In a video shared publicly, Green explained that while he couldn't reveal all the details yet, his next endeavor is focused on helping the United States compete economically with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). He described it as a business initiative that mirrors his continued commitment to protecting national interests—this time through innovation and enterprise rather than legislation.

Green’s public service career began in the Tennessee State Senate, where he served from 2013 to 2018. He then won the seat for Tennessee's Seventh Congressional District in 2018 after Marsha Blackburn vacated the position to successfully run for the U.S. Senate. Throughout his tenure in Congress, Green became known for his strong advocacy for veterans, his leadership in the impeachment of a cabinet secretary, and his push for border security reforms.

His final legislative act, which he referred to as the "Big Beautiful Bill," was a border security measure that he viewed as a capstone to his work in Congress. “My time here started with a fire to serve veterans, it continued with leading the historic impeachment of a cabinet secretary, and now it ends with achieving real border security,” Green noted, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

With his resignation official, a number of Republican candidates are already emerging to fill the soon-to-be-vacant seat in Tennessee’s Seventh District. Among them are Matt Van Epps, former commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services; State Representative Jay Reedy; Montgomery County Commissioner Jason Knight; and combat veteran Jon Thorpe. Additionally, State Representative Jody Barrett indicated he is praying on a decision and may announce his candidacy in the coming days.

Green’s departure adds to a growing list of congressional exits ahead of the 2024 elections, marking a pivotal moment for Republican leadership in Tennessee. As he transitions to the business world, Green has signaled that his mission to serve the country is far from over—only now, it will be from beyond the halls of Capitol Hill.