Congressman Charlie Dent, R-15th, has announced within the last hour that he will soon be leaving Congress.

“After discussions with my family and careful reflection, I have decided to leave Congress in the coming weeks,” Dent said. “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.

“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.

“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. It is my intention to continue to aggressively advocate for responsible governance and pragmatic solutions in the coming years.”