Marie Gluesenkamp Perez’s ads have unfairly attacked John Braun, claiming, “Under His Watch, the State Budget Ballooned by 48% in the Last Five Years." This is strikingly dishonest. In fact, MGP’s own Democrat party has controlled the Governor’s office and both houses of the state legislature over the last 6 years. In that time frame, they pushed through budget increases of more than 63%, over the strenuous objections of Braun and Republican legislators. Large tax increases on businesses are forcing some to leave, or consider leaving Washington entirely. These tax hikes adversely impact Braun’s manufacturing company in Chehalis, making it harder for him and his 350 employees. However, mounting business taxes in Washington state don’t affect the auto repair shop that MGP ran with her husband Dean, since Dean’s Car Care is located in Portland, Oregon. MGP cannot distance herself from these decisions by the Washington state Democrats, since she served on the state party’s executive committee from 2020-2022. The blame for out-of-control state spending lies not with John Braun, but with her and her Democrat colleagues. Meanwhile, MGP voted against extending the 2017 Federal tax cuts in the Big Beautiful Bill that was passed in 2025. Now the Child Tax Credit is restored, the standard tax deduction is larger, and taxes on overtime and tips are eliminated, in spite of strong opposition by the Democrats. MGP also states "Braun Authored the Biggest Property-Tax Hike in State History." This tax change was a bipartisan response mandated by the Washington State Supreme Court McCleary ruling. In fact, most property owners saw a rate decrease, especially rural homeowners. MGP says "Braun Pocketed a 72% Salary Increase." Senator Braun did not vote himself a 72% pay raise. State legislative salaries are determined by an independent citizens’ commission. Braun opposed the salary increases before this commission multiple times. John Braun won’t be a rubber-stamp for the Administration. For example, he states he will push back against the President’s blanket tariff policies, since indiscriminate tariffs hurt US- based manufacturers. Braun explains that solving the problem of manufacturing jobs being shipped overseas will require a more sustained approach. John Braun’s background as a business owner, manufacturer, and nearly 14 years as a Washington State Senator will serve SW Washington well. We need his fiscal discipline, practical experience, and strong leadership skills to help both our region and the country.
Douglas Tweet,
Camas
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