Election Controversy: John Braun Responds to Marie Gluesenkamp Perez Attack Ad

Republican Washington state Sen. John Braun is firing back at Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez over a controversial campaign advertisement involving a fatal workplace accident at his family-owned business, Braun Northwest. In an interview with The Center Square, Braun disputes the claims made in the advertisement and accuses the Perez campaign of misleading voters in Washington's closely watched 3rd Congressional District race. The controversy follows a heated congressional debate hosted by KATU in which Perez raised questions about Braun's response to the death of an employee at Braun Northwest, a Washington company that manufactures emergency vehicles. The Perez campaign advertisement features Colton Keller, whose father died in a workplace accident at Braun Northwest in 2024. In the ad, Keller says Braun never called him or asked how his family was doing after the tragedy. Keller also criticizes how the company handled his return to work. Braun strongly disputes that characterization. Speaking with The Center Square, Braun says he spoke with Keller in person multiple times on the day of the accident. Braun also says Braun Northwest provided paid leave, counseling, access to chaplain services and meals for employees and families affected by the tragedy. "Why would I call him if I'd already talked to him personally?" Braun said. Braun accuses the Perez campaign of using the tragedy for political purposes and calls its characterization of his response misleading and "heartless." He says that while he takes responsibility for any shortcomings in the company's response, he rejects the suggestion that he and his employees did not care about the family. The Center Square contacted the Marie Gluesenkamp Perez campaign for comment but did not receive a response before publication of the report. The dispute comes as ballots arrive for Washington's 2026 midterm elections and the race for Washington's 3rd Congressional District draws national attention. The contest between Republican John Braun and Democratic incumbent Marie Gluesenkamp Perez could play a role in determining control of the U.S. House of Representatives. IN THIS REPORT: John Braun responds to Marie Gluesenkamp Perez's campaign advertisement Fatal workplace accident at Braun Northwest Colton Keller's allegations about the company's response Braun's account of his conversations with Keller Paid leave, counseling and other assistance Braun says the company provided Braun's criticism of the Perez campaign Washington's 3rd Congressional District election GET WASHINGTON NEWS SENT DIRECTLY TO YOUR PHONE Keeping up with Washington state news shouldn't feel like a second job. The Center Square delivers important Washington government and policy updates approximately twice a week, explaining what happened, why it matters and what it could mean for you. Text TCSWA to 206-944-3016 or use the link in the description. Subscribe to Washington In Focus Daily for reporting on Washington elections, congressional races, government accountability, business, public safety and taxpayer issues. #JohnBraun #MarieGluesenkampPerez #WA03 #WashingtonElections #WashingtonPolitics #BraunNorthwest #CongressionalRace #TheCenterSquare