PHILADELPHIA — A former U.S. congressman from suburban Philadelphia has announced he's running for Pennsylvania governor next year.

Democrat Joe Hoeffel currently is a Montgomery County commissioner.

He unsuccessfully challenged then-Republican Sen. Arlen Specter in 2004.

He says he wants to make sure government keeps investing in health care, education and jobs.

The race for governor is a crowded one.

The Democratic field also includes Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato, Auditor General Jack Wagner, Philadelphia businessman Tom Knox and Scranton Mayor Chris Doherty.

The Republican field includes Attorney General Tom Corbett and U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach.