Legislature chairman, Dem leader unopposed
Running unopposed for a sixth term as an Ulster County lawmaker, Legislature Chairman Kenneth Ronk says he will continue to work across the political aisle and across branches of government to reduce taxes and expand services for county residents.
Ronk, 32, is running for re-election to the Legislature’s District 13 seat. In addition to holding the GOP line on the November ballot, Ronk has the backing of the Conservative and Independence parties.
The district which comprises part of the town of Shawangunk.
Ronk first was elected to the Legislature in 2007, at age 22. Prior to being chosen as chairman in 2016, he served on a number of legislative committees, including Law Enforcement and Public Safety; Energy and Environment; Laws and Rules, Governmental Services; Health; and Personnel.
During his tenure as chairman, Ronk has prided himself on his ability to work with both political parties as well as with County Executive Mike Hein, a Democrat.
A lifelong Wallkill resident, Ronk holds an associate’s degree in humanities and social sciences from SUNY Ulster and a bachelor’s degree in political science from SUNY New Paltz.
He is the regional office director for state the state Assembly minority leader, Brian Kolb.
Ronk is married to Rachel Ronk.