Raymond Bunk has formally announced his intention to seek the state Senate seat occupied by Pam Roach.

Bunk switched his political ambition, having previously filed with the state’s Public Disclosure Commission as a candidate for a seat in the House of Representatives.

“The 31st District deserves better than Pam Roach,” said Bunk, 37, who resides in Bonney Lake. “With all of the challenges we are facing as a state – from growing our economy to keeping our streets safe – now is the time to bring people to the table and get things done for our families.”

Bunk came out swinging in a press release, making reference to Roach’s “erratic and temperamental approach in Olympia once again making headlines during this year’s session.” Regional news stories have detailed how Roach was banished earlier this year from the Republican caucus following an angry outburst. Roach has downplayed the incident and maintained it does not limit her effectiveness as a legislator.

“Pam Roach is not getting the job done for our district,” Bunk said. “She should be making headlines about creating jobs and improving our schools, not berating staff members.”

Bunk, a Federal Way police officer, boasts a lifetime commitment to serving others, having initially served as an emergency medical technician and firefighter in his local fire department at the age of 18.

Prior to serving in the police force, Bunk spent four years in the Air Force as a firefighter. He continues to serve in the Air Force Reserves and, in that capacity, served a tour of duty in Iraq in 2007. He currently serves on Bonney Lake’s Civil Service Commission and Design Commission and as a fire commissioner for East Pierce Fire and Rescue.

In addition, Bunk has helped raise money for children in both Iraq and Afghanistan and is the co-chair of the Kick for Nick program in the Puget Sound region.

“I’m a 40-hour-a-week guy who cares about 40-hour-a-week issues, not making flashy headlines,” Bunk said. “If the voters of the 31st send me to Olympia this November, I promise to represent our district with a civility that will bring people from both parties to the table in order to deliver results.”

The 31st Legislative District includes Bonney Lake, Sumner, Enumclaw, Buckley, Wilkeson and part of Auburn.