CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – State Sen. Bill Powers, who was among the state leaders considered contenders to replace Rep. Mark Green in a special election, announced Wednesday that he has decided not to run for Congress.

“After careful consideration on a potential run for the 7th Congressional District in Tennessee, I have decided against running for Congress,” Powers said in a statement to Clarksville Now.

“Honestly, the decision was not difficult. I love Montgomery County and feel I can have a larger impact working on state and local issues with better results than arguing with folks in Washington, D.C.”

| MORE: Who’s running so far to replace Congressman Mark Green

Powers, a Republican, has been the state senator for Montgomery County since 2019. He was last re-elected in 2024.

“In Tennessee, we balance budgets, cut taxes, pass strong illegal immigration laws, protect our conservative way of life, and believe in the rule of law. We have more to accomplish, and I am ready to continue my work in the state Senate for Clarksville and Montgomery County.”

Who’s running so far

Green, a Republican who has represented U.S. House District 7 since 2019 and was last re-elected in November, announced June 9 that he has accepted a job in the private sector. Green said he will resign after the House completes work on the budget. Once Green’s last day is determined, Gov. Bill Lee will call for the special election, scheduling a primary and general election.

While more announcements are expected, here’s who has stepped up so far:

  • Jason Knight of Clarksville, Republican: The Montgomery County commissioner and former City Council member, small business owner, military veteran.
  • Jon Thorp of Springfield, Republican: Military veteran.
  • Matt Van Epps of Nashville, Republican: Former commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services, military veteran.

U.S. House District 7 covers the western portion of Middle Tennessee, spanning from the Kentucky state line to the Alabama state line. It includes Montgomery County and portions of Nashville/Davidson County and Williamson County.

| DON’T MISS A STORY: Sign up for the free daily Clarksville Now email newsletter