MOUNT VERNON — John P. Ruckman, a Knox County business owner, auctioneer, and former Mount Vernon City councilman, announced he is running for Knox County Commissioner in 2028.
Ruckman will seek the Republican nomination for the term beginning January 2029.
“This isn’t a decision I’ve made overnight,” Ruckman said. “I’ve spent a considerable amount of time thinking about the future of Knox County, talking with people throughout our community, and considering where I can be of the greatest service. I’ve made my decision. I’m running for county commissioner.”
Showing up, listening, making thoughtful decisions
Ruckman served on Mount Vernon City Council from July 2023 until October 2026, when he resigned as his family prepared to move outside the boundaries of the ward he represented. He is an owner and the principal auctioneer of The Ruckman Group Auctions & Appraisals, a family-owned business serving Knox County and the surrounding communities.
Throughout his professional career, Ruckman has worked closely with farmers, property owners, families, and small business owners. He currently serves as vice president of the Ohio Auctioneers Association and has been actively involved in numerous local civic and charitable organizations.
“One of the things I’ve come to appreciate, both in business and public service, is that good leadership isn’t always about the work that gets noticed,” Ruckman said. “More often, it’s about showing up, listening, making thoughtful decisions, and being willing to roll up your sleeves and get the job done, even when the work isn’t particularly exciting or glamorous.”
Ruckman also emphasized the importance of character and personal responsibility in public service.
“Recent events have reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time: Character matters in public service,” Ruckman said. “The values we try to live by here in Knox County — honesty, personal responsibility, sound judgment, and keeping our word — ought to matter just as much in public office as they do in our homes and businesses. Anyone entrusted with public office should expect to be held accountable to those principles. That includes me, too.”
Stewardship, heritage and accountability among Ruckman’s priorities
Ruckman said his priorities include responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, preserving Knox County’s agricultural heritage and rural character, thoughtful economic development, and ensuring county government remains accessible and accountable to the people it serves.
“I love Knox County. It’s the only place I’ve ever called home. It’s where Amy and I are raising our family, where we’ve built our business, and where I’ve had the privilege of serving our community,” he said.
“I believe Knox County has a great future ahead of it, but the decisions we make today will help determine what kind of county we leave to our children and grandchildren. I want to do my part to make sure those decisions are made thoughtfully, with common sense, and with an appreciation for what makes this county such a special place to call home.
“I’m not interested in public service for the sake of a title. I’m interested in the responsibility that comes with it,” Ruckman said. “In the months ahead, I look forward to continuing to visit with people throughout Knox County, listening to their concerns, and discussing the opportunities and challenges facing our community. I believe I have something worthwhile to contribute, and I’m prepared to earn the opportunity to serve.”
Ruckman will seek the Republican nomination in the 2028 primary election.
Residents interested in learning more about Ruckman’s candidacy, sharing their thoughts, or discussing issues facing Knox County are welcome to contact him directly.
