Small manufacturer, retired naval officer, and citizen legislator says he brings leadership and real-world experience to race

CHEHALIS, WA – Republican State Senator John Braun, 58, Centralia, today announced his candidacy for Congress in Southwest Washington’s 3rd Congressional District. A U.S. Navy veteran and president of Braun Northwest, a family-owned manufacturer of emergency vehicles that provides 350 jobs in the region, Braun brings decades of leadership experience in business, the military, and public service.

“Whether in the Navy, running a small business, or serving in the state legislature, I’ve always focused on solving tough problems, clearing roadblocks, and helping others succeed,” said Braun. “In Congress, I’ll bring that same approach — working to lower costs for families, support American manufacturing, and expand opportunities for family-wage jobs here at home.”

Braun served in the U.S. Navy for 31 years, including both active and reserve duty, rising from Ensign to the rank of Captain. His last assignment was as the Director of the U.S. Navy Submarine Force Reserve Component.

“Members of Congress take an oath to defend our country against all enemies, foreign and domestic. I take that oath seriously. I’ll work to secure our borders and maintain a strong national defense — because peace is best preserved through strength.”

Braun has served as a part-time citizen legislator in the Washington State Senate since 2013. In 2017, he wrote a bipartisan, balanced state budget that provided essential services without raising taxes. In 2020, he was chosen by his peers to serve as Senate Republican Leader, where he led efforts to promote fiscal responsibility, improve education, and support working families.

“I know how to fight bad policy — and how to craft good policy that makes a difference for people here in Southwest Washington.  I look forward to working with President Trump on a positive agenda that gets America back on the right track.”

Braun’s campaign is already off to a fast start, having secured the endorsements of both Congressman Michael Baumgartner (R-Spokane) and former Clark County state Senator and Clark County Republican Party Chair Lynda Wilson (R-Vancouver).

“I know John Braun well from our time working together in the state Senate,” said Baumgartner.  “He is a highly intelligent, strong conservative who would make an outstanding member of Congress.  I’m proud to endorse him.”

“John Braun is a man of unwavering honesty and integrity,” said Lynda Wilson.  “He understands the unique character of Southwest Washington and the values we hold dear.  I trust him to fight for us and lead with principle.  He has my full and enthusiastic endorsement.”

Braun and his wife, Marlo, have been married for 37 years and live on a small farm outside Centralia. They have four successful adult children, three of whom have served or are serving as officers in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps.

Information provided by Braun for Congress.

---

Also read:

• 
  Coast Guard approves fixed-span design for new Interstate Bridge
  The U.S. Coast Guard has approved a fixed-span design for the new Interstate Bridge, clearing a major hurdle for the Interstate Bridge Replacement project.
• 
  Opinion: Why vote no on the Battle Ground School District levy?
  Dick Rylander outlines why he believes voters should reject the Battle Ground School District levy, citing costs, enrollment trends, test results, and district spending priorities.
• 
  County Elections provides important information for upcoming special election
  Clark County Elections has released key dates and instructions for voters ahead of the Feb. 10 Special Election, including ballot mailing, registration deadlines, and drop box hours.
• 
  POLL: What should be the top priority for lawmakers during the 2026 legislative session?
  Clark County Today’s weekly poll asks readers to weigh in on which issue Washington lawmakers should prioritize as the 2026 legislative session approaches.
• 
  C-TRAN votes for Board Composition Review Committee to reconvene
  The C-TRAN Board of Directors voted to send the issue of board representation back to the Board Composition Review Committee as disputes continue over compliance with state law and potential grant funding losses.