House Passes Trump’s “Big and Beautiful Bill”

Trey Gowdy from Fox News shared his thoughts regarding the significant news just ahead of Independence Day, as Congress approved President Donald Trump’s “large and beautiful American bill.”

Rep. Mark Green’s departure from Congress marks a shift in the current composition, which now consists of 219 Republicans and 212 Democrats in the House of Representatives.

Following Green’s exit, there will be 431 House members with four seats remaining vacant, including those of the late Democrats Sylvestar Turner from Texas, Raul Grijalva from Arizona, and Jerry Connolly from Virginia.

Green, a Republican from Tennessee, had indicated last month that he would step down after the House voted on Trump’s “big beautiful bill.” He expressed his feelings about retiring, stating, “It’s heartfelt to announce my retirement from Congress. I was excited about an opportunity in the private sector and communicated my decision to the speakers and the House.”

He mentioned that with the House passing the legislation by a voluntary deadline of July 4th, he plans to officially leave Congress on July 20th.

Green referred to representing Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District as a “lifetime honor,” highlighting his efforts to uphold conservative values and principles. He noted that throughout his time in office, they achieved major tax cuts and collaborated with Trump to enhance border security.

Interestingly, Green had initially intended to retire at the end of the last legislative session but changed his plans to support the passing of Trump’s border security measures.

He added, “After overseeing the border aspects of the Adjustment Package, I will retire, and a special election will follow to find my replacement.”

Green has been in Congress since 2019 and served as the chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, where he oversaw various issues pertaining to border security during the previous administration.

It seems likely that his seat will stay within Republican hands, especially since the district strongly supported Trump in the last election.

Fox News Digital recently reported that Green backs Matt Van Epps as his potential successor in the House.

Van Epps is a decorated Army veteran and formerly served as the commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services. Green endorsed him, calling him a “true warrior,” and mentioned that they served together in the same Army Special Operations Unit.

Expressing his gratitude, Van Epps stated he feels “deeply honored” to represent the people of District 7, aiming to continue Green’s legacy.

Republican candidates, including Montgomery County Commissioner Jason Knight and Army veteran Jonathan Thorpe, have announced plans to run for the congressional seat as well.