On Saturday candidate for Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan became the first candidate to receive an endorsement from a Democratic Committee when the Plattekill Democratic Committee overwhelmingly voted to support Ryan for the office.

“This is the first endorsement of any candidate in the race for Ulster County Executive and highlights the strong support for our campaign all across the county,” said Ryan. “Our message - of enacting a Green New Deal, accelerating economic development, and advancing social justice - is already resonating with voters. I’m honored and humbled to have the Plattekill Democratic Committee’s endorsement, and look forward to working together to make Ulster County a better place.”

Ryan previously committed himself to hold office hours as County Executive in every municipality at least once a year, in an effort to make himself more accessible to residents. He is the only candidate to publicly state that they will not accept any campaign contributions from corporate PACs or LLCs.

Pat Ryan is a fifth generation Ulster County resident and a native of Kingston. He graduated from West Point and served two combat tours in Iraq, before returning home to start two businesses to deliver better technology to our troops overseas. Pat was the runner-up in the Democratic primary for U.S. Congress in New York’s 19th District. Pat resides in Gardiner, NY, with his wife, Rebecca.

On Tuesday, Deputy Ulster County Executive Marc Rider released a statement announcing that he is ending his campaign for Ulster County Executive and throwing his full support behind Pat Ryan for the position.

“I entered this race with the idea that I would continue the good work begun by County Executive Mike Hein, while also sharing my own vision for making Ulster County a more equitable place for all residents,” said Rider. “However, I will be doing so while staying in my current role as Deputy County Executive - and joining Team Ryan.” Rider added, “I believe Pat Ryan is the best choice to continue the great work that has taken place over the last decade...I would like to thank those who have supported me through this process, and ask you all to support Pat Ryan..”