I met Marie Gluesenkamp Perez four years ago during her race against Joe Kent, and I voted for her. This November, though, my vote is going to John Braun.
I consider myself an Independent, and I’ve never been someone who blindly votes for a candidate based on their party affiliation. I try to look at the person, their character, their experience, and whether I believe they will put our community ahead of politics. That’s what drew me to John Braun.
I first met John more than a year ago, shortly after he launched his campaign. I was impressed by how genuine and grounded he was and by the depth of experience he brings to the job. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to introduce him to friends throughout Cowlitz County. Again and again, I’ve watched people come away with the same impression I did: John is someone who listens, understands our community, and genuinely wants to serve.
His life reflects that commitment. He served our country for 31 years in the Navy, has been a leader in the State Senate, and spent decades helping build a local manufacturing business that provides around 350 family-wage jobs here in Southwest Washington. He understands what it means to meet a payroll, create jobs, raise a family, and make difficult decisions.
More importantly, John approaches public service with a sense of responsibility that I respect. He is thoughtful, practical, and willing to work with people who don’t always agree with him. He understands that most of us are less interested in partisan fighting than we are in having leaders who will work hard, solve problems, and make life a little better for the people they represent.
I voted differently in the previous elections, and I don’t regret making the choice I thought was right at the time. But elections should be about looking carefully at the candidates in front of us and deciding who is best prepared to serve now.
For me, that person is John Braun. He has earned my confidence, my respect, and my vote this November.
John Jabusch
Kelso
