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.”
