Two years ago, a surprising political upset occurred in Amboy, Washington. A 34-year-old auto repair shop owner and new mother ran for Congress without any support from national Democrats and managed to win a seat that had been held by Republicans for over a decade. Now, this seat is a crucial battleground in the fight for control of the House.
The incumbent, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, is not your typical Democrat. She openly criticizes the Biden administration’s immigration policies and refuses to endorse Kamala Harris for president. She lives in a house she and her husband built, away from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C. She values blue-collar workers like plumbers, mechanics, and electricians, while expressing disdain for the elitism of politicians in the capital.
Despite her willingness to go against her party and her focus on issues that resonate with rural voters, Gluesenkamp Perez faces a tough reelection campaign. Her Republican opponent, Joe Kent, is a staunch supporter of former President Trump and has ties to controversial groups like the Proud Boys and white nationalists. The district has a strong Republican presence, having voted for Trump twice, making the race a toss-up.
As the campaign heats up, Gluesenkamp Perez embarked on an RV tour of the 3rd Congressional District, connecting with voters in small towns and rural communities. She emphasizes her blue-collar background, having worked multiple jobs to put herself through college, and her commitment to representing the interests of her constituents.
Gluesenkamp Perez’s platform focuses on practical issues that matter to the people in her district, such as improving access to farm loans, energy efficiency in mobile homes, and supporting trades like logging, plumbing, and electrical work. She has shown a willingness to break ranks with her party on certain issues, drawing criticism from both sides but earning respect from constituents who value her independence.
Despite facing pressure from national Democrats and outside groups, Gluesenkamp Perez remains focused on local issues and her connection to the community. She understands the challenges of representing a diverse district with varying political views and strives to find common ground with voters, even as the political climate becomes increasingly polarized.
In a contentious political environment where party lines are sharply drawn, Gluesenkamp Perez’s approach of putting her constituents first and focusing on practical solutions may be her best chance at winning reelection. As she navigates the challenges of a competitive race and a divided electorate, her commitment to serving the people of the 3rd Congressional District remains unwavering.
