LIUNA Member and State Senator Kenny Yuko Retires After 18 Years at the Ohio Statehouse

Representing Ohio’s 25th Senate District that includes parts of both Cuyahoga and Lake Counties, State Senator Kenny Yuko has devoted his career to strengthening Northeast Ohio and improving the lives of those who call it home.

Senator Yuko grew up in Euclid and graduated from Brush High School in the South Euclid/Lyndhurst School District in 1968. He then attended both Cuyahoga Community College and Kent State University before entering the workforce.

Yuko began his career as a clothing buyer for Polsky’s Department Store, but he soon found his true passion with union organizing. He served with the Laborers’ Local #860 for 30 years, including 25 years as union organizer. He retired from that service in 2004. During his long career, he received multiple awards for his efforts, including the “2000 Organizing Award” from his International Union.

With this experience under his belt, Yuko ran for State Representative in 2004 with the goals of protecting working families, promoting health care access, and improving Ohio’s economic climate.  He won convincingly and was subsequently re-elected for three more terms. During his tenure in the House, he served as both Chairman and Ranking Member of the Commerce and Labor Committee, and was also a member on the Committees on Health and Aging and Veterans Affairs.

Because of his outstanding dedication to the causes he cares about, Yuko has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Ohio AFL-CIO Lifetime Achievement Award.

"Brother Yuko was proud to show his union book wherever he went. Whether it be a union rally or with the Chamber of Commerce. Kenny was always fighting the good fight to ensure workers are treated with dignity and respect," said Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga at Yuko's retirement party. "It was fitting that Kenny spent his last day at the Statehouse with the union railroad workers holding and informational picket."