Washington State Primary Election Delivers Early Results in Competitive Congressional and Local Races

Early returns from Washington's primary election show Republican John Braun leading the 3rd Congressional District race with 51 percent of the vote, while Democrat incumbent Marie Gluesenkamp Perez trails at 34 percent. Results across multiple congressional, legislative, and local contests are reshaping expectations in several closely watched races, though Washington counts ballots over multiple days, meaning unofficial results may shift as additional votes are processed.

Competitive Congressional Contests Taking Shape

The 3rd Congressional District race has emerged as one of the state's most closely watched contests. Braun's commanding early lead positions him and Gluesenkamp Perez to advance to the November general election under Washington's top-two primary system, which sends the two candidates receiving the most votes regardless of party affiliation to the general ballot.

Washington's open-seat race to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse is proving highly competitive. Republican Amanda McKinney holds a narrow edge with 34 percent, followed closely by Democrat John Duresky at 29 percent. Republicans Matt Boehnke and Jerrod Sessler remain within striking distance, with the top two candidates currently positioned to advance to November.

Incumbent U.S. Rep. Adam Smith commands his 9th Congressional District race with 51 percent of the vote. Republican Doug Basler follows at 24 percent, while challengers Kshama Sawant and Melissa Chaudhry each receive approximately 12 percent.

Local Races Draw Voter Interest

Seattle City Council District 5 shows Nilu Jenks leading with 50 percent, followed by Julie Kang at 36 percent. The race fills the seat vacated by Cathy Moore's resignation. State Sen. Rebecca Saldaña leads the King County Council District 2 contest with 52 percent, ahead of Port of Seattle Commissioner Toshiko Grace Hasegawa's 39 percent.