Sammi's Restaurant in Wescosville was the scene of a gathering of supporters for Congressman Charlie Dent, R-15th, who officially announced his candidacy for re-election March 1.

"Next to being a father and a husband, serving the public has been the greatest honor and privilege of my life," Dent told his supporters.

Dent continues to support economic growth and creating jobs.

"People are tired of the constant bickering they see in Washington," Dent said.

Dent said he is committed to common sense solutions and is working to reduce duplicate and wasteful government programs.

"It's time Washington started solving problems for Americans instead of creating them," Dent said.

Dent resides in Lehigh County with his wife and three children. He has been in Congress since 2004.

The 15th District encompasses Lehigh County and parts of Berks, Dauphin, Lebanon and Northampton counties.