The wife of Rep. Mark Green, a senior House Republican who rescinded plans to retire earlier this year, has accused him of having an affair with a woman in Washington, and issued a harsh warning to the wives of fellow lawmakers to look out for women “predators.”
Camilla “Camie” Green charged her husband, a three-term congressman, of having a relationship outside of their 35-year marriage. Her claim comes weeks after Mark Green filed for divorce in Montgomery County Circuit Court in August, according to court records published by local media. The couple resides in Ashland City, Tennessee.
Camie Green sent a message that the Washington Examiner obtained early Friday morning in which she wrote to other lawmakers’ wives and alerted them of the reason for their divorce, along with a caveat — that her husband had become a different man while in Congress. The letter was later published by the Nashville Banner and cited in a legal document obtained by the Washington Examiner.
House Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green has filed for divorce https://t.co/THLpqC3cXF
“I would like to ask for prayer for my family. Mark has filed for a divorce after having an affair with a 32 year old woman,” Camie Green wrote in the message, naming a news media organization that has denied the claim and threatened legal action. “He fell head over heels in love with her to the extent he wanted to marry her and start a new family. He has become a different man than I have known for our 35 year marriage. He is living life greatly deceived.”
Camie Green said she had attempted reconciling with her husband, but that he “insisted” on ending their marriage.
“Satan has rewritten our marriage in his mind. I am being quite open about this as 1) I cherish the prayer of any who are willing and 2) I want to make others aware of how readily available ‘predators’ are for our husbands,” said Camie Green, who did not respond after being contacted by the Washington Examiner. “If my story can prevent this tragedy from happening to someone else, I will tell it.”
Camie Green warned that Congress could make lawmakers vulnerable to attention outside their marriage.
“Our husbands are often isolated from others who might hold them accountable and on top of that they can become intoxicated with power and adoration,” wrote Camie Green. “Mine is a classic case of this as he pushed God out of his life, me out of his life, and developed friendships with other congressmen and women having affairs and getting divorces, drinking, parties, all while hosting a weekly Bible study in the basement of our home.”
Camie Green added that her two adult sons were “struggling and mourning the loss of who they knew to be their dad.”
“We were a couple that did not consider divorce an option due to our faith. I never thought this would be my story,” said Camie Green. “I cherish all the prayer I can get for Mark as well as my kids and I. My heart is shattered. I really just don’t know how to do life right now.”
Mark Green was tapped in early 2023 to take over the House Homeland Security Committee, a senior position in the 435-member House.
Mark Green has focused his tenure as chairman on investigating Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and pushed through the articles of impeachment against the Biden-Harris official earlier this year. Mayorkas was ultimately let off the hook when the Senate declined to hold a trial.
In February, Mark Green said he would retire, adding that his desire was “to go out on top.”
“It’s pretty clear that the founders, the framers of the Constitution at least, intended the people’s representatives to serve for a season and then go home,” Mark Green said. “We’re not intended to be here to grow old in Congress. So, there’s that constitutional piece that really kind of honestly probably is what pushed me over the edge.”
Weeks later, Mark Green said he had reversed his decision and cited “big, big things” in his future.
Mark Green’s office asked for privacy.
“This is a difficult time for my family and me, and we are currently going through divorce proceedings,” Mark Green wrote in a statement. “As this is a deeply private matter, I ask for privacy. I will continue to serve this district with all I’ve got, as I have the last five and a half years.”
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Former President Donald Trump had nominated Mark Green as secretary of the Army in 2017, but the congressman later withdrew his nomination. He ran for Congress in 2018 and took office in January 2019.
Mark Green was known for being part of the military unit that captured Saddam Hussein in December 2003. He later wrote a book about the experience that was published in 2009.
Congressional 'Predators': A New Breed of Politician?
Camie Green’s accusations, however, paint a more troubling picture than just an affair. She alleges that the environment in Congress, with its intoxicating power and adoration, creates a breeding ground for “predators” who prey on vulnerable spouses left behind. This claim, if true, raises serious questions about the ethical and moral standards of those holding public office.
While the specific details of Green’s alleged affair remain shrouded in secrecy, Camie Green’s accusations, if credible, point towards a broader societal issue, particularly relevant within the context of Congress. This isn’t just about an individual’s infidelity; it’s about the potential for Congress to be a place where ethical boundaries are blurred and those seeking personal gain, rather than public service, may thrive.
Impact on Green’s Political Future
The allegations against Rep. Green come at a crucial time, as he is facing re-election in November. It is unclear whether the scandal will have a significant impact on his campaign, but it is sure to be a major talking point.
The affair allegations, coupled with Camie Green’s accusations of a toxic culture within Congress, have the potential to damage Rep. Green’s reputation and erode public trust. Whether this will lead to a loss of support from voters remains to be seen, but the scandal is undoubtedly a major obstacle in his bid for re-election.
A Warning Sign for American Democracy?
Camie Green’s bold accusations, combined with Rep. Green’s denial and request for privacy, have ignited a public debate about the integrity of those elected to serve the nation. This is not just a personal story of infidelity; it is a story about the dangers of unchecked power and the corrosive influence it can have on individuals and institutions.
As the saga unfolds, it is crucial to remember that Camie Green’s accusations are just that – accusations. Due process and respect for privacy must be upheld. However, her story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and ensuring that the integrity of American democracy is safeguarded.
The Final Word
The story of Rep. Mark Green and his alleged affair is a complex one, filled with personal pain, accusations, and denials. While the truth of the matter may never be fully known, the scandal serves as a reminder that those holding public office are not immune to human frailties and temptations. It is also a cautionary tale about the perils of power and the importance of holding elected officials accountable for their actions.