Clark County voters are hearing a heated exchange as Rep. Marie Glusenkamp‑Perez releases a new campaign ad that attacks Republican congressional hopeful John Braun. Braun’s campaign says the ad misrepresents his record and ignores the concrete tax relief delivered to families in the region.
Tax‑cut record under scrutiny
According to Braun’s team, the 2017 property‑tax adjustment—mandated by a bipartisan, court‑ordered settlement of the Washington Supreme Court’s McCleary decision—cut property‑tax rates for the majority of owners. Rural homeowners, who make up a large share of the 20th legislative district, saw the biggest reductions. The campaign argues that the ad’s claim Braun authored “the biggest property‑tax hike in state history” is factually incorrect.
Budget growth and partisan control
Braun’s supporters note that the state budget grew by more than 60% over the past six years while Democrats held majorities in both the governor’s office and the legislature. They contend that Braun, a former Senate budget negotiator, consistently opposed those spending increases, even when they passed on partisan votes. The ad, however, suggests Braun was responsible for a 48% budget increase over five years—a figure the campaign says conflates overall state growth with Braun’s individual role.
Compensation claims addressed
The ad also alleges Braun received a 72% salary increase. Braun’s office counters that Washington legislators do not set their own pay; an independent citizens commission determines compensation. Braun publicly opposed the raise, citing the economic pressure on average taxpayers.
Local impact and voter concerns
For families in Lewis, Cowlitz, and Clark counties, the tax‑cut narrative matters. Property‑tax relief directly affects household budgets, especially for those living outside the urban core. Braun’s campaign emphasizes his background as a Navy veteran and small‑business owner, positioning him as a citizen legislator who understands the financial challenges of everyday Washingtonians.
Glusenkamp‑Perez’s response
Glusenkamp‑Perez’s campaign has not issued a detailed rebuttal to these specific points, focusing instead on broader criticisms of Democratic spending. Braun’s team urges voters to look beyond the ad’s rhetoric and consider the tangible tax benefits that have already reached their neighborhoods.
As the race intensifies, Clark County voters will weigh the contrasting messages: a claim of fiscal responsibility and tax relief versus accusations of partisan spin.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
