In a historic milestone during Black History Month, Ken Jenkins was elected on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, as Westchester County’s first Black County Executive.
This achievement is particularly significant given Westchester’s establishment in 1683 as one of the original 12 counties of England’s New York Colony, predating the Declaration of Independence and encompassing eras such as the Three-Fifths Compromise, the Civil War, Jim Crow laws, and the Civil Rights Movement. County Executive Jenkins’ election not only marks a pivotal moment in the county’s 342-year history but also reflects the ongoing journey toward racial equity and representation in American politics at all levels of government.
Beyond the historical significance, County Executive Jenkins brings a wealth of experience to the role. From 2007 to 2017, he served as a Westchester County Legislator, including four years as the first Black Chairman of the Westchester County Legislature (Established in 1703 as the Westchester County Board of Supervisors).
Following this, from 2018 to 2025, he held the position of Deputy County Executive under now Congressman George Latimer, making him the first individual to have served as both Chairman of the County Legislature and Deputy County Executive. His leadership extended to the national stage, where he served as Chair of the Transit/Rail Subcommittee of the National Association of Counties Transportation Steering Committee—a notable role considering that Westchester’s Bee-Line Bus System is the largest comprehensive bus system in New York State outside of New York City, with over 50 routes serving more than 27 million passengers annually.
County Executive Jenkins’ election is a testament to the progress spearheaded by the Black community in the pursuit of racial equity. His leadership and dedication have paved the way for future generations, and his tenure as County Executive promises to bring continued growth and inclusivity to Westchester County. As we celebrate this achievement during Black History Month, we honor the legacy of those who have fought for representation and equality, acknowledging that each milestone brings us closer to the ideals upon which our nation was founded.
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” ~ Declaration of Independence Preamble (July 4th, 1776)
