Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez faces Republican Joe Kent for Washington's 3rd District

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- The race between Democratic incumbent Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp-Perez and Republican challenger Joe Kent, is among the closely watched races across the country that could tip the balance of power in the House of Representatives.

Just before 8:30 p.m., Gluesenkamp-Perez took the lead with 51% of the vote and Kent with 47%. According to the Washington Secretary of State's Office nearly 300,000 votes have been counted.

As reported by The Hill, Washington’s 3rd District is among a handful of seats Republicans think they can flip, with Kent backed by former President Donald Trump.

During a debate hosted by KOIN 6 News, the candidates sparred over issues including abortion, the Interstate-5 replacement project, and immigration.

Around 7 p.m., the Washington Secretary of State's Office told KOIN 6 News there is about a four-hour wait at the Clark County Elections Office -- including people registering to vote and cast their ballots. The Secretary of State's Office noted voters can still cast their ballots as long as they are in line by 8 p.m.