(The Center Square) – Just days after Tennessee Republican U.S. Rep. Mark Green, said he was resigning from Congress after the budget reconciliation vote, one candidate has announced intention for his seat.
Matt Van Epps, who served as commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services, left his job to run for the seat. He said on his campaign website he supports President Donald Trump’s MAGA agenda.
“For the last two decades, I’ve served this country – as a combat-tested Army helicopter pilot, a business leader, and most recently, as Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services,” Epps said on his Facebook page. “Every step of the way, I’ve focused on solving problems, leading teams, and defending the values that make America exceptional. Now, I’m stepping forward to serve in a new way – because I believe Washington needs fewer politicians and more public servants.”
Other names are being discussed to fill Green’s unexpired term. State Rep. Jody Barrett, R-Dickson, said he has received a “wave of encouragement” from voters across his district.
“I have consistently expressed that I do not have a burning desire to climb any political ladder or chase the proverbial next step,” Barrett said in a statement. “I entered public service because I was frustrated with the status quo and felt called to do something about it. If I were to run for Congress, it would only be out of that same sense of calling and purpose.”
Green’s district covers parts of western and middle Tennessee, including a portion of Nashville. He is the chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security.
In his resignation post, Green said he is leaving Congress to take a job in the private sector.
A date for the special election has not been set.
