Rep. Mark Greene (R-Tenn.) announced on Monday that he will resign from Congress, stepping down from his leadership position on the House Homeland Security Committee. He expressed intentions to support his party’s “big beautiful bill” before officially leaving his seat.
Greene mentioned that he has already secured a job outside of Congress, which seems exciting for him. “It’s a heartfelt decision to announce my retirement. I was thrilled with an opportunity in the private sector that prompted my choice to hand over my responsibilities,” he stated.
He had initially planned to retire at the end of the previous Congress but chose to stay on to prioritize President Trump’s border security initiatives. Greene oversaw the border security aspects of the settlement package and will leave once the House votes on it again.
His choice to remain until final approval of the GOP’s tax cuts and spending package has reassured Republican leaders facing a narrow majority. They had previously passed the same bill last month.
Changes are expected from Senate Republicans regarding the legislation, with the House anticipated to vote on the revised bill this summer.
This marks Greene’s second announcement regarding resignation. He had signaled his intent to leave in February 2024 but decided to stay after receiving encouragement from Trump.
Following Greene’s departure, the House will consist of 219 Republicans and 212 Democrats, meaning the GOP will only lose three votes, allowing them to pass measures as long as all their members are present.
Greene’s resignation will pave the way for a new chairperson on the panel reviewing many of Trump’s prominent immigration policies.
Throughout Biden’s administration, Greene has been a vocal critic, conducting numerous hearings related to fentanyl deaths and immigration issues, often highlighting the experiences of parents who lost children in such circumstances. During Trump’s term, his committee addressed immigration policies and budgetary challenges, advocating for an expansion of deportation efforts.
A veteran with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, Greene’s time in Congress concludes after just two terms as he approaches what would have been his fourth term.
