Marie Perez – A New Low

Chehalis, Wash. — Incumbent Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is not running on her record. Instead, she is running false attack ads against John Braun (The Chronicle Editorial Board: Dishonesty Takes Center Stage in MGP’s Pursuit of New Term in Congress).

Her latest attack ad accuses Braun of ignoring Colten, the son of Karl Keller, following Karl’s tragic death. Colten also worked at Braun Northwest. Specifically, the accusation is that “Braun never called.”

Here is the official report from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries: ‍

“At 8:30 a.m. on August 2, 2024, an assembly supervisor started a newly built ambulance located in a parking area in anticipation of moving the vehicle into the building. Employee #1 (Karl) climbed under the running vehicle in the parking area. The supervisor subsequently reentered the vehicle and moved it.”‍

Braun Northwest provided Colten Keller with paid time off, daily face to face support from leadership/human resources and unlimited counseling services following the incident and organized a family meal train to support him and his family. Braun also personally delivered a meal prepared by his wife, Marlo, for Colten and his family. Colten later returned their dishes and thanked Braun. Colten continued working for Braun Northwest until May 2025 and continues to provide services as a vendor through his sandblasting company.

The accusation in Marie’s ad is that “Braun never called” Colten.

“Wow. That’s a low smear even for a DC politician and it’s wild and heartless distortion,” said Braun. “I met with Colten twice on the day of this tragic accident and at least twice afterward. I expressed my deep sympathy. Other workers can confirm that I personally briefed Karl’s coworkers and met multiple times with the entire workforce. This was a tragic accident and an emotionally difficult time for everyone involved.

“I have no idea why Colten would agree to make an ad like this for Marie at this time. Marie paying money to run this ad proves one thing: She’s desperate.”

‍John Braun is a state senator representing Washington’s 20th Legislative District, which includes parts of Lewis, Cowlitz, and Clark counties. He is running for Congress to represent Southwest Washington and bring his experience in the U.S. Navy, as a citizen legislator, and as a manufacturing business owner to Washington, D.C.

###

‍