Politics

Third Congressional District candidates agree to two televised October debates

The October debates will be among the first opportunities for voters to see Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and John Braun share the stage during the general election campaign

By Clark County Today · September 12, 2026
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WA-3 Candidates Agree to Two October TV Debates
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Third Congressional District candidates agree to two televised October debates
Washington state Senate Minority Leader John Braun, left, is squaring off with U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, right, in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District. (Photos courtesy of campaigns)

John Braun, Republican candidate for Washington’s 3rd Congressional District has, this week, enthusiastically accepted two televised debates to which incumbent Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez has agreed. The televised debates will be held in October ahead of the 2026 general election.

Braun will participate in a live, televised debate hosted by KOIN on October 7, followed by a second debate hosted by KATU on October 13.

The debates will give voters across Southwest Washington an opportunity to hear directly from both candidates and compare their records, priorities and visions for the future of the district.

“I’ve hoped for debates earlier than October but am grateful these will finally be held on TV for everyone in our district to watch. The contrast between me and my opponent will be on full display for Southwest Washington voters.” said Braun. “This choice comes down to results. My career is about getting things done for working families. My opponent has spent four years in Congress seeking publicity but has passed just one bill into law. Southwest Washington deserves better, voters can see that I’m ready to deliver.”

Braun’s campaign manager, Max Lavey, said the debates will highlight the candidate’s experience and qualifications for Congress.

“Southwest Washington will see why John Braun is the most qualified candidate for this office,” said Lavey. “Braun is about service and results, not photo-ops. His 31 years of service in the Navy, experience as a manufacturing business owner, and record of policy and legislative leadership as a citizen legislator have prepared him to deliver results for the people of this district. Voters will see that experience and steady leadership on full display.”

The October debates will be among the first opportunities for voters to see Braun and Gluesenkamp Perez share the stage during the general election campaign.

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