Gluesenkamp Perez faces progressive discontent in tight House race

The briefing

U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) is facing backlash from progressive and Democratic voters in Southwest Washington's 3rd Congressional District due to her bipartisan votes, such as supporting the SAVE Act and a defense spending bill. While some voters feel betrayed and plan to withhold their votes or write in candidates, others view her as a necessary bulwark against Republican candidate John Braun in one of the country's tightest House races. The Cook Political Report recently shifted its rating of the race from a toss-up to leaning Democrat, reflecting the intense polarization and delicate balancing act required in the swing district.