Democratic Marie Gluesenkamp Perez wins reelection in competitive Washington race, securing a key seat
Perez secures another term
Perez defeated Braun in the contest for Washington’s 3rd Congressional District, according to a CBS News projection. The rural district lies in the state’s southwestern corner. Braun is the top Republican in the Washington state Senate. He was a more mainstream Republican than Perez’s previous opponent, Joe Kent, a far-right conservative who later became Mr. Trump’s counterterrorism chief and resigned in protest over the Iran war.
Braun drew distinctions
Braun also sought to create distance from Republican leaders during the campaign. He said Congress had an important role to play and should exercise it.
A closely watched seat
Perez drew criticism from Democratic colleagues in September after joining Republicans on two procedural votes that were struggling to pass. Her victory brings relief to Democrats, who needed to retain the competitive district as they pursue a House majority. At a district event that month, Perez highlighted her commitment to the community while referring to her occasional breaks with her party.
Key points
- CBS News projected that Perez won a third term in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District.
- Perez defeated Republican state Sen. John Braun in the rural southwestern Washington district.
- Democrats needed to hold the competitive seat in their effort to retake the House majority.
- Braun had Mr. Trump’s endorsement but differed with him on several issues.