Firebrand Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, once among President Donald Trump's fiercest MAGA allies, announced on Friday that she plans to resign from Congress while saying she will not become "a battered wife" and espousing the value of everyday Americans who she says have been shunned by Washington's "political machine."
Newsweek reached out to the White House via email for comment Friday night.
Why It Matters
Greene, once among Trump’s staunchest supporters, announced she will step down from the U.S. House of Representatives after a tenure of five years, after a highly publicized rift with the president.
Her departure highlights growing divisions within the Republican Party as the 2026 midterm elections approach and raises questions about the direction and unity of the GOP. Greene’s move follows Trump’s withdrawal of support and public criticisms, signaling internal battles that may influence the party’s strategy and voter base in key battleground districts.
What To Know
In a video lasting more than 10 minutes posted to X on Friday, Greene said in part, "I'll be resigning from office with my last day being January 5, 2026."
She noted frustration with Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson for not calling up bills to be voted and said that Republicans will "likely" lose the midterm elections.
"I refuse to be a battered wife, hoping it all goes away and gets better. If I am cast aside by the president, and the MAGA political machine, and replaced by neocons, Big Pharma, Big Tech, military industrial war complex, foreign leaders, and the elite donor class, that can never ever relate to real Americans. Then many common Americans have been cast aside and replaced as well," Greene added.
The announcement occurred days after a clash with Trump escalated, including his public declaration that she was a "traitor" and the withdrawal of his endorsement. Greene said her decision was motivated by the desire to spare her district from a contentious and divisive primary challenge instigated by the president.
Greene has recently criticized Trump’s handling of various issues, including foreign military aid, health care and the push to release government records on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to ABC News Senior Political Correspondent Rachel Scott, the president reacted to the news in a phone call with Scott, saying, "I think it's great news for the country. It's great." When asked if Greene gave the president a heads-up, Trump responded, "Nah, it doesn't matter, you know, but I think it's great. I think she should be happy."
What People Are Saying
Greene's daughter, Lauren Greene, on X Friday night: "One of a kind Congresswoman. Forever will be so proud of my mom @mtgreenee 110% on America First, American Only."
David Axelrod, ex-adviser to former President Barack Obama, on X Friday: "Who had on their bingo card that this week would begin with @realDonaldTrump denouncing @RepMTG as a 'traitor,' and end with his apparently successful meeting and warm verbal embrace of @ZohranKMamdani?"
What Happens Next
Greene’s split from Trump and subsequent departure could potentially prompt further shifts in alignment within the Republican caucus, particularly among lawmakers in competitive districts.
Update 11/21/25, 9:38 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.