Democratic Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who represents Washington state's third district, is participating in a primary election today, Tuesday 4 August 2026. She gained national recognition in 2022 for flipping a Republican seat.
Gluesenkamp Perez is facing challenges from within her own party, including progressive Democrat Brent Hennrich, and from Republican state senator John Braun. There are six other candidates on the ballot. The two candidates who receive the most votes will proceed to the November general election, irrespective of their party affiliation.
Democrats are generally favoured to win the House of Representatives in November's midterm election. However, securing and expanding their majority will depend on the outcomes in highly contested seats such as Gluesenkamp Perez's district.
Frustration has reportedly grown among some Democrats in her district during her two terms, with some expressing disappointment over her votes on certain legislation. Conversely, her supporters argue that her voting record reflects the district's Republican lean and that retaining the seat is paramount for Democrats.
An Emerson College poll conducted in mid-July for the Northwest Progressive Institute indicated that Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican Braun were tied.