Ex-builders' lawyer Tim Ford running for judge

Open-government advocate Tim Ford of Olympia is running for a state Court of Appeals position now held by Judge Joyce “Robin” Hunt.

Ford worked for the Building Industry Association of Washington before taking on a government-accountability role for Republican Attorney General Rob McKenna. He also serves as vice chairman of a Legislature-appointed “sunshine” committee reviewing exemptions in the Public Records Act for worthiness.

He issued a statement today, saying he believes “open and transparent government, where decisions and debate occur in public, strengthens the citizens faith in our system. Government at every level, including the courts, must be held accountable to the public it serves. Citizens pay the bills and have the right know how decisions are made. We have a right to insist on accountability.”

Ford lives in Olympia, is married and has one daughter.

The Court of Appeals Division II seat serves Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Kitsap, Mason and Thurston counties.