Mark Pody


Mark Pody is an American politician. He serves as a Republican member of the Tennessee Senate from the 17th district, encompassing Cannon County, Clay County, Dekalb County, Macon County, Smith County and Wilson County.

Early life

Mark Pody was born on April 23, 1956 in Spokane, Washington.

Career

Pody runs a life insurance small business.
He is a member of the Tennessee Firearms Association, the Chambers of Commerce in Lebanon, the Trousdale County, Watertown, and Cannon County. He is also a past President of the General Agents & Managers Association. A private pilot, he is a member of the Civil Air Patrol.
In April 2012, he proposed a legislation in favor of religious freedom on state college campuses in reaction to Vanderbilt University's "all-comers" policy.
In September 2015, Pody proposed bill HB1412, known as the Tennessee Natural Marriage Defense Act, to ban same-sex marriage in Tennessee despite the Supreme Court's decision to legalize it. He drew a parallel with the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. His colleague in the Senate, Mae Beavers, proposed a similar bill.
According to the Nashville Scene, Pody "believes he’s on a mission from God to stamp out same-sex marriage."
In 2017, Pody won a special election to the State Senate in a closer than expected race. Prior to that, he served in the State House of Representatives for District 46.

Personal life

Pody is married and has two children. He is a Christian. He attends Woodmont Bible Church in Nashville.