Mark Green (Tennessee politician)

Mark Green, official portrait, 116th Congress

Mark Green is an American politician and physician who has been serving as the United States Representative for Tennessee's 7th congressional district since 2019. A member of the Republican Party, Green previously served in the Tennessee Senate from 2012 to 2018.

Early Life and Education

Mark Green was born in Mississippi and grew up in a military family, moving frequently throughout his childhood. He attended West Point, where he earned a degree in economics. After graduating, Green served as an infantry officer in the United States Army, where he was deployed to Iraq. He was part of the operation that captured Saddam Hussein and wrote a book about the experience. After leaving the army, Green pursued a medical degree at Wright State University's Boonshoft School of Medicine.

Medical Career

Before entering politics, Green worked as an emergency room physician and founded a healthcare company that provides emergency department staffing. His medical background has influenced his political stance on healthcare issues, advocating for free-market principles in the healthcare industry.

Political Career

Tennessee Senate

Green's political career began when he was elected to the Tennessee Senate in 2012. During his tenure, he focused on issues related to healthcare, veterans' affairs, and economic development. He was known for his conservative stance on fiscal and social issues.

U.S. House of Representatives

In 2017, Green was nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as Secretary of the Army, but he withdrew his nomination due to controversy over past comments and his positions on social issues. Later that year, he announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives to succeed Marsha Blackburn, who was running for the U.S. Senate. Green won the election in 2018 and has been serving as the representative for Tennessee's 7th congressional district since January 2019.

In Congress, Green has been involved in several committees, including the House Armed Services Committee and the Committee on Homeland Security. He has focused on defense, healthcare, and veterans' issues, reflecting his military and medical background.

Personal Life

Mark Green is married and has two children. He is known for his Christian faith, which has been a guiding principle in both his personal life and political career.

Controversies

Green's political career has not been without controversy, particularly regarding his views on LGBTQ+ rights and Islam. His comments on these subjects have drawn criticism from various groups and were a significant factor in his decision to withdraw his nomination for Secretary of the Army.

Legacy and Impact

Mark Green's career reflects a blend of military service, medical practice, and political involvement. His work in the Tennessee Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives has focused on advocating for conservative principles, particularly in healthcare, defense, and veterans' affairs. Despite controversies, he remains a prominent figure in Tennessee politics and the Republican Party.