Laurie Brauer has won 74 percent of the Democratic vote so far to become Champaign County coroner, according to unofficial primary results posted late Tuesday evening by the county clerk’s office.
She is running against Seon Williams. Acting coroner Steve Thuney ran uncontested on the Republican side.
Brauer has wanted the role since joining the coroner’s office three years ago. She wants to make the team that investigates murders, overdoses, and unexplained deaths more efficient and compassionate.
“Making the office more medically focused, more mental health training, just more consistent. I come from a medical background and it’s important to me to do continuing education,” Brauer said.
Williams owns a funeral home and is passionate about preventing gun violence. Thuney has the longest career in the coroner’s office.
By 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Champaign County had counted 15,000 votes. The Champaign County clerk’s office plans to release official results on April 2. Thuney will face the winner between Williams and Brauer in November’s general election.
Emily Hays is a reporter for Illinois Public Media.
