Trump Endorses State Senator in 3rd District Race

Former president backs Republican challenger over incumbent Democrat

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:37pm

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An abstract, fragmented painting featuring the silhouette of a politician repeated in overlapping, geometric patterns of deep red, navy blue, and gold, conveying a sense of political tension and dynamism.Trump's endorsement of the Republican challenger injects high-stakes partisan drama into a pivotal congressional race.Centralia Today

Former President Donald Trump has weighed in on the race for Washington's 3rd Congressional District, endorsing Republican state Senator John Braun over the incumbent Democratic Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez.

Why it matters

Trump's endorsement could provide a significant boost to Braun's campaign, as the former president maintains a strong influence over the Republican base. This race is seen as a key battleground in the fight for control of the House of Representatives.

The details

In a social media post, Trump praised Braun as a strong conservative and criticized Gluesenkamp Perez, the first-term Democrat who flipped the traditionally Republican district in 2024. Braun, a state senator from Centralia, is positioning himself as a Trump-aligned challenger to the incumbent.

  • Trump posted his endorsement on social media on April 15, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who maintains significant influence within the Republican Party.

John Braun

A Republican state senator from Centralia, Washington, who is challenging the incumbent Democratic Representative in the 3rd Congressional District.

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez

The incumbent Democratic Representative for Washington's 3rd Congressional District, who flipped the traditionally Republican seat in 2024.

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What they’re saying

“John Braun is a strong conservative who will fight for the people of Washington's 3rd District. He has my complete and total endorsement.”

— Donald Trump

What’s next

The 3rd District race is expected to be a closely watched and highly competitive contest, with both parties vying for control of the House of Representatives. The primary election is scheduled for August 2026.

The takeaway

Trump's endorsement of the Republican challenger in this swing district race underscores the former president's continued influence within the GOP and the high stakes of the upcoming midterm elections.