Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has narrowly won re-election in Washington state's 3rd Congressional District, defeating Republican challenger Joe Kent for the second time. Despite the district's Republican leanings and its support for Trump in 2020, Gluesenkamp Perez managed to retain her seat by positioning herself as a moderate with a bipartisan voting record. Her victory in this closely watched race is significant as the GOP aimed to reclaim the district, which had been in Democratic hands for only two years after a decade of Republican control.
Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has won a rematch against Republican challenger Joe Kent in Washington state, as projected by the Associated Press. The seat was a key target for Republicans after Gluesenkamp Perez flipped it in 2022, following backlash against then-Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler for her impeachment vote against Donald Trump. Kent's controversial statements on issues like abortion and the 2020 election may have influenced voters, despite his attempts to criticize Gluesenkamp Perez on border and spending issues.
Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Pérez has secured a second term in a Republican-leaning district in Washington state, defeating Republican Joe Kent in a rematch. Known for her centrist stance, Gluesenkamp Pérez has faced criticism from progressives for occasionally siding with Republicans, such as on the repeal of President Biden's student loan relief efforts. Her campaign emphasized her blue-collar background and pragmatic politics, contrasting Kent's ties to extremism. Local issues, like securing funds for a new bridge, also played a role in her victory.
Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has secured a second term in Congress by defeating Republican Joe Kent in Washington's 3rd Congressional District. Gluesenkamp Perez led with 51.3% of the vote, largely due to strong support in Clark County. Known for her moderate stance and bipartisan efforts, she has focused on rural and working-class issues, gaining endorsements from various labor unions and trade groups. The race drew significant national attention and funding, reflecting its potential impact on the balance of power in the U.S. House.
Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has secured a second term in the U.S. House of Representatives for Washington's 3rd Congressional District, defeating Republican Joe Kent with 51.55% of the vote. The race was closely watched, with Perez's lead growing slightly with each new batch of results. In other local elections, several races in Washington's 17th and 18th Districts remain tight, and a proposal to fund more police officers in Vancouver is failing. Former Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler lost her bid for Commissioner of Public Lands.
