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U.S. Representative Charlie Dent of Pennsylvania announced his decision to resign in the coming weeks. His resignation could potentially set up a special election in the state. Governor Tom Wolf has the authority to order and set the schedule for a special election to replace Dent in the 15^th congressional district. Rep. Dent previously announced his intention to retire at the end of his term. On Tuesday, the moderate Republican said he will no longer finish his term. In a statement, Rep. Dent said, "After discussions with my family and careful reflection, I have decided to leave Congress in the coming weeks. Serving the people of the 15th Congressional district has been a tremendous responsibility and the privilege of a lifetime.” In addition, the GOP lawmaker said, “Actively engaging in the legislative and political process presents challenges, and in so doing, I believe I have had a positive impact on people's lives and made a difference in Congress.” Furthermore, Rep. Dent stated that he is “especially proud” of the work he has done “to give voice to the sensible center in our country that is often overlooked or ignored.” He intends to “continue to aggressively advocate for responsible governance and pragmatic solutions.” Rep. Dent is the chairman of Tuesday Group, an informal caucus of approximately 50 moderate Republicans in the House. He is also the chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee on military construction, veterans’ affairs and related agencies.

Gov. Wolf describes Rep. Dent “a voice of reason and civility”

After Rep. Dent’s announcement, Gov. Wolf released a statement thanking the GOP lawmaker for his service to the country and commonwealth. The governor described him a “voice of reason and civility that breaks through the chaos and partisanship of Washington.” “While we do not agree on everything, Charlie has always been approachable, and he has always put his constituents above partisan politics,” said Gov. Wolf. The governor will make a formal decision regarding the date of a special election after receiving an official resignation notice from Rep. Dent. Under Pennsylvania law, the governor must issue a writ of election within ten days of a vacancy. A special election must follow not less than sixty days after the issuance of the writ.

Dozens of Republicans are leaving Congress

He is a frequent critic of President Donald Trump. In December, the moderate GOP lawmaker made it clear that the President was not a factor for his decision to leave Congress. At the time, he told CNN’s Poppy Harlow, “I really thought it might be time to move on. Those are part of my reasons.” He also acknowledged the fact that Republicans who are facing re-election are “facing a very challenging mid-term environment.”