Washington’s 3rd Congressional District Primary: Gluesenkamp Perez vs. Braun

Washington’s 3rd Congressional District will hold a top-two primary on Tuesday. The ballot lists nine candidates, but Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) and state Sen. John Braun (R-WA) have emerged as the clear front-runners. The two highest vote-getters will advance to the November general election, regardless of party affiliation.

Follow The Money By Race

The district, a “purple” seat that voted for Donald Trump in each of his three presidential bids, was flipped by Gluesenkamp Perez in 2022 after she narrowly defeated Trump-endorsed challenger Joe Kent. She expanded her margin in 2024, winning 51.9% to 48.1% despite the district’s Republican tilt. The Cook Political Report rates the seat as R+2, and Inside Elections upgraded it from “Tilt Democratic” to “Toss-up” in May 2026, noting eroding support within her own party.

Follow The Money By Race

Gluesenkamp Perez has raised roughly $6.3 million this cycle, with about $2 million in cash on hand after spending $4 million. More than 20 political-action committees have contributed, the largest single donation exceeding $600,000 from the House Victory Project 2026. Braun has reported $2 million total receipts, including $1.5 million from individual donors, and carries endorsements from President Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. An Emerson College poll for the Northwest Progressive Institute conducted in mid-July found the two candidates tied.

Follow The Money By Race

Democratic officials expressed disappointment with Gluesenkamp Perez’s voting record. LaDonna Kirkpatrick, chair of the 18th Legislative District Democrats, cited her support for the Save Act, a Trump-backed election overhaul, and a bill restricting public-school discussion of gender identity. Thea Zahn, chair of the 20th Legislative District, said she will never vote for the incumbent again. By contrast, Terri Niles, chair of the 17th Legislative District Democrats, argued that none of the contested votes became law and emphasized that flipping the House remains the party’s primary goal.

The GuardianFollow The Money By Race

• “I won’t vote for Marie. I will never vote for Marie Perez again.” — Thea Zahn, the chair of the 20th legislative district, agreed

The Guardian

• “We could hand a truly 100% Maga candidate a congressional seat for life,” — Tim Probst

The Guardian