WA GOP Senate Leader Braun Challenges Democrat Gluesenkamp Perez for 3rd District

John Braun, the Washington state Senate minority leader and a U.S. Navy veteran with extensive legislative experience, has officially launched his campaign to unseat Democratic U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez in the 3rd Congressional District, a key swing district in southwest Washington. Braun positions himself as a pragmatic conservative who aims to appeal to independent and moderate Republican voters who previously rejected Republican Joe Kent, a Trump-endorsed candidate associated with far-right views. Braun emphasizes his focus on solving problems, supporting American manufacturing, lowering costs for families, and working with President Donald Trump on a positive agenda. The district, won by Trump three times, flipped to Gluesenkamp Perez in 2022 and again in 2024 against Kent, making the 2026 race crucial for control of the U.S. House. Braun has also sought to reconcile with MAGA supporters following some intra-party tensions and has defended Trump's tax policies while criticizing Democratic tax initiatives. As a businessman and former budget negotiator, Braun campaigns on conservative principles and practical governance, aiming to regain the seat for Republicans in a district vital to Trump's agenda and congressional balance.