First-term Ulster County District Attorney Dave Clegg announced on Monday afternoon that he will not seek re-election due to a serious health issue affecting a family member.

"Those who know me, know that I am extremely competitive and never back down from a fight," Clegg said, adding that he had to balance what is in the best interests of his family.

Clegg narrowly defeated Republican Mike Kavanagh in 2019.

“Since assuming this position in January 2020, this office also has had more than its fair share of challenges, ranging from a complete shift in discovery laws, creating additional burdens on the prosecution, to mass attrition of ADAs state-wide, to a once-in-a-century pandemic," Clegg said in a statement.

In spite of the challenges, Clegg said his team "have rebuilt the office."

Clegg, a more than 40-year resident of Ulster County, will continue his work as an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church, and "spend more time with my wife, Karen, and family, including my precious 18-month-old granddaughter," he said.