Rep. Charlie Dent (R., Penn.) announced Tuesday his intention to resign in May, saying he will continue giving voice to those in the "sensible center" of American politics.
Dent had previously announced in September that he would not run for reelection in 2018, but in a new statement, he moved up the time of his departure. In the statement, Dent said he considered the matter with his family, but he did not offer any additional explanation for why he was resigning in May rather than finishing out his term. The congressman also touted his record and declared his intention to remain in public life.
"I am especially proud of the work I have done to give voice to the sensible center in our country that is often overlooked or ignored," he said. "It is my intention to continue to aggressively advocate for responsible governance and pragmatic solution in the coming years."
https://twitter.com/RepCharlieDent/status/986250527674720258?s=19
He expressed his appreciation for the support of his constituents, saying his time in Congress has been "the privilege of a lifetime."
"Serving the people of the 15th Congressional district has been a tremendous responsibility and the privilege of a lifetime, and I am honored by the trust that so many of my constituents placed in me to represent them in Washington," he said. "Actively engaging in the legislative and political process presents many challenges, and in so doing, I believe I have had a positive impact on people’s lives and made a difference in Congress."
At least 43 House Republicans in the 115th U.S. Congress have announced resignations, retirements, or decisions to run for another office. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R., Wis.) made waves last week when he announced his intent to retire at the end of his term to spend more time with his family.