KINGSTON – Democratic Ulster County Executive Patrick Ryan has endorsed Mayor Pete Buttigieg, a fellow military veteran and elected municipal leader, for president.

“Pete offers exactly what our country needs right now – a bold, progressive vision for our future grounded in moral leadership and real experience, from leading a diverse industrial Midwest city to leading troops in combat,” Ryan said on Tuesday.

“At a time of great discord and division, I feel compelled to endorse Pete because I know he is the right leader to unify and heal our country again,” Ryan said. “I am confident he will guide the return of our nation to smart, effective, and compassionate leadership.”