Bucks County Commissioner May Primary: Pamela Van Blunk, Republican

Candidates running in contested races in the May 16 primary election have been invited to provide background about themselves and their positions on the issues to voters in these profiles, which will run in Patch individually for each candidate.

BUCKS COUNTY, PA — Bucks County Controller Pamela Van Blunk is seeking the party's nomination for one of two open four-year-seats on the Bucks County Board of County Commissioners. She is in a three-way Primary race on the Republican ballot with incumbent Commissioner Gene DiGirolamo and former county commissioner Andrew Warren. DiGirolamo and Van Blunk are the endorsed Republicans in the race.

Biographical Information

Name: Pamela Van Blunk

Age: 56

Town of residence: Doylestown Twp

Position sought: Bucks County Commissioner

Are you an incumbent? No

Party affiliation: Republican

Family: Married to Hank Van Blunk; blessed with three beautiful adult children and one granddaughter

Education: Bachelor of Science, Rutgers University; J.D., Widener University School of Law

Occupation: Bucks County Controller

Questions

Why are you running?

I am running because I want to serve the people of Bucks County. This service will come in many different ways, but each is important. We must provide taxpayers with the transparency and fiscal responsibility they deserve. We must protect and preserve our open space and natural areas. We must provide the support our small businesses need to thrive and grow our economy. We must protect the integrity of our elections to make sure that every legal vote is counted. We must provide law enforcement with the resources they need to keep our streets safe and combat the opioid epidemic. We must do these things and more in service to our neighbors, and that is my commitment to you as our next County Commissioner.

What are your top issues and how do you plan to address them?

In a place as diverse and unique as Bucks County, there are a number of issues and challenges facing our families and our communities. That said, I believe that among the top issues are a stagnant economy that is driving up costs, a lack of transparency and accountability in government, and the safety of our communities. Locally, we must do what we can to support small businesses to create good, family-sustaining jobs. It is also up to the new majority on the Board of Commissioners to provide the public with transparency and accountability that has been missing over these last four years. Finally, we will support the men and women in law enforcement working every day to keep our families safe.

What in your experience or background prepares you for election to office?

My experience as Controller has given me a unique insight into County government, and I have seen how we can improve transparency, accountability, and accessibility for all Bucks County residents. More importantly, as a mother and someone who operated their own small business, I understand the challenges facing families across this county. You deserve someone fighting for you each and every day, and I believe that I posses the professional background and life experience to be your voice.