Rep. Mark Green to Resign After Reconciliation Vote

Representative Mark Green, Republican of Tennessee and chair of the House Homeland Security Committee, has announced his intention to resign from Congress following the upcoming reconciliation package vote. Green notified Speaker Mike Johnson that he will depart once the House completes its second vote on the reconciliation legislation, which Republicans aim to pass by early July.

This announcement follows Green's previous retirement reversal in 2024. In February of that year, Green had decided not to seek reelection, but later changed course after receiving constituent calls and encouragement from Senator Marsha Blackburn and President Donald Trump. Green cited his work on border security measures as a primary reason for remaining in Congress until the reconciliation package passes.

During his tenure, Green led the House Homeland Security Committee and participated in several significant legislative efforts. These included the impeachment proceedings against former Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and work on H.R. 2, legislation focused on border security and immigration enforcement. Green described his congressional service as "the honor of a lifetime" representing Tennessee constituents.

Green's departure will impact the Republican majority in the House of Representatives. Speaker Johnson currently holds a narrow margin that allows only three vote losses on party-line legislation. Following Green's resignation, this majority will shrink to just two seats, increasing pressure to hold a special election promptly. Tennessee law requires special elections to be held 75 to 80 days after notification, though they may coincide with regularly scheduled elections if timing permits.

The 7th Congressional District of Tennessee, which Green represents, is considered a reliably Republican area. Political analysts expect the seat to remain under Republican control following the special election. The reconciliation bill that Green is waiting to vote on before departing has been described as a priority for congressional Republicans, who hope to send it to President Trump's desk by Independence Day.