What happens next for Marjorie Taylor Greene after exit from Congress?

Marjorie Taylor Greene’s tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives will conclude prematurely on January 5, following her unexpected announcement to resign amid escalating tensions with former President Donald Trump.

The Georgia Republican, once hailed as a rising figure within her party, has sparked widespread speculation regarding her future ambitions after this sudden decision.

This resignation comes on the heels of a very public dispute with Trump, who labeled Greene a “traitor” and declared his intention to back her challenger in the upcoming election cycle.

Her break with Trump was fueled in part by her outspoken criticism of his administration’s refusal to disclose documents related to the investigation of the late Jeffrey Epstein, as well as her opposition to several of Trump’s policy stances.

Despite rumors swirling about a potential 2028 presidential run, Greene, 51, has firmly denied such plans. So, what paths might she pursue next?

While Greene currently dismisses any interest in a presidential campaign, history shows that political figures often reconsider their ambitions over time.

Her advocacy for transparency was evident when she co-signed a petition demanding the release of Epstein-related files, a move that advanced into legislation introduced by Democrat Ro Khanna.

Khanna recently remarked to NBC News that Greene “could emerge as a strong contender in 2028,” noting her deep connection with Trump’s base, arguably more so than Vice President JD Vance.

Time Magazine reported that Greene had “confided in close associates” about contemplating a presidential bid, though she quickly refuted these claims on social media, calling them “completely false.”

Once a staunch Trump ally, Greene has since distanced herself from many party orthodoxies and the former president himself, criticizing issues ranging from Epstein file secrecy to Trump’s global tariff policies, U.S. support for Israel, and healthcare funding.

Greene has not explicitly ruled out running for statewide office in Georgia, with both the governorship and a U.S. Senate seat up for grabs in 2026.

Governor Brian Kemp, a two-term Republican, is barred by term limits from seeking re-election, opening the door for new contenders.

Alternatively, Greene could challenge incumbent Democrat Jon Ossoff in the Senate race, which is also scheduled for 2026.

Trump himself has publicly commented on Greene’s potential candidacies, revealing that he discouraged her from running for either position, citing low polling numbers and withholding his endorsement.

Political analyst Kerwin Swint from Kennesaw State University notes that Greene’s appeal is largely confined to her congressional district, and she would likely face significant challenges in a statewide campaign.

Without viable options at the state level, the presidency remains a distant, albeit unlikely, possibility for Greene, who may still harbor ambitions despite her denials.

Experts predict Greene may pivot toward media, potentially launching a podcast or becoming a prominent conservative commentator to maintain her public presence.

Such a move would align her with a growing trend of former politicians leveraging digital platforms to influence public discourse.

For example, former Congressman Matt Gaetz, after stepping down, started his own podcast, while California Governor Gavin Newsom hosts a popular podcast from the Democratic side.

Additionally, figures like Dan Bongino transitioned from media careers into political appointments, illustrating the fluidity between these spheres.

Greene has recently appeared on networks with more liberal audiences, such as CNN and ABC’s “The View,” sparking speculation about her potential role as a conservative voice in mainstream media.

In her resignation announcement, Greene cited a desire to spend more quality time with her family, whom she said she had neglected while championing Trump’s causes.

She described enduring relentless personal attacks and threats throughout her political career, which intensified following her public fallout with Trump.

Beyond politics, Greene owns Taylor Commercial, a construction and renovation firm she acquired in 2002, which has overseen projects valued at approximately $250 million.

This business venture could provide a stable foundation for her post-political life, should she choose to exit the public arena entirely.

Reporting contributed by Max Matza