SAUGERTIES – Susan Zimet has dropped her bid for Ulster County Executive.  Zimet, a two-term county legislator, told a party gathering Sunday she is no longer running.  She announced her bid just two weeks ago. 

Zimet’s decision leaves County Administrator Michael Hein the lone Democrat candidate.

Meanwhile, the Town of Saugerties Republican Committee has endorsed Leonard Bernardo of Rochester for Ulster County executive. 

"On May 1, a quorum of committee members heard from two people seeking the Republican endorsement for County Executive," said Town Committee Chairman Joseph Roberti.  "Our committee members believe his strong business background makes him more than qualified for the position of county executive.”

Roberti said while Bernardo is a member of the Independence Party, “his anti-tax, pro-economic development message closely mirrors the philosophy of the Republican Party".