Laurie Brauer, Champaign County Coroner

05/24/2025

Most people hope they never have to meet us—and honestly, I get it. But sometimes, we have the opportunity to truly make a difference.

When you’re passionate about this work, you give it your all. That means long hours, missed dinners, and time away from the people we love. But we do it because there’s a grieving family out there who needs answers—answers only we can help provide.

I’m tired. But heading into the weekend, I feel a sense of peace. My office did the right thing. We came together as a team. We weren’t afraid to reach out to other agencies for help. And because of that, we helped a family find some clarity.

That’s why I do what I do. 💙

05/20/2025

It was truly an incredible experience being part of this drill.

My role may be small, but the mission is big—saving lives. Watching multiple agencies and dedicated volunteers come together for the good of the community is what public service is all about.

Most people don’t see the countless hours of planning and coordination behind the scenes—and that’s okay. Because when the time comes, our first responders have yourUniversity of Illinois PoliceSavoy Fire Departmentard Fire & Rescue
University of Illinois Police
Arrow Ambulance Tolono Fire Protection District
Savoy Fire Department
Salvation Army
Red Cross

12/01/2024

Come join us this morning!

11/12/2024

It's been a week since election day, and my thoughts on the local and state elections are settling down. The dominant feelings I have from those races are humility and gratitude.

Humility is due to the fantastic people I've met on my journey to earn this office. Humility for the people who sacrificed their time, energy, voice, influence, and money- all of which are in finite supply- to help me. I will work to repay those intangibles you gave to me as best I can. It's also humbling to me that I'll be serving alongside so many accomplished professionals- Susan McGrath, Re-Elect Champaign County State's Attorney Julia Rietz, Faraci for Senate, Matt Sullard for Champaign CountyNikki Budzinski, Emily Rodriguez for County Board to name a few. There are so many more!

Gratitude for many of the same reasons. It's not lost on me that as much work as campaigning for office is, the REAL work starts on December first when I'm sworn in. My values that I'm bringing to the office are different than my predecessors in this office, and I'm already at work framing the strategy to help me be successful as the first female Champaign County Coroner, the first Democrat, and most importantly, a Coroner who YOU sent to the office to make the changes I shared in my campaign.

I'm looking forward to a smooth transition with the outgoing Appointed Coroner.

I'm grateful for the trust you've placed in me, and I'm looking forward to getting to work for you!

I'll keep this page active at least until the swearing-in on December first.

11/05/2024

It's election day! Three-plus years have led me to this moment to be on the ballot to serve as the Champaign County Coroner. While not relevant to my ability to fill the role, I would be the first woman in this role (I think there's another race where that may happen, too?).

If you haven't voted, here's all of the information you need to cast your ballot: https://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/many-ways-vote

Early voting has seen lines at some polling places in the past couple of days; think of this like going to the DMV- a short drive to a different location may mean a shorter wait.

THANK YOU to the people who have accompanied me on this amazing journey to be on the ballot- I'm hopeful that all of our sacrifice, hard work, and efforts will pay off tonight when the polls close and the ballots are counted!

Check out our video on all the different ways to vote in Champaign County! Illinois is a leader on voting rights and the Clerk's Office is committed to ensuring every eligible voter in Champaign County has a fair, free, and accessible election. VOTE BY MAIL - is a safe, secure, and convenient way to...

11/04/2024

Yesterday was another fun day of camaraderie and campaigning!

Sunday started with sending off a bus load (literally- with Marcie and Emma Murphy coordinating, the initial bus wasn't big enough!) of local friends to Michigan to knock on doors for VP Harris. Faraci for Senate and DeShawn Williams for Urbana Mayor gave some inspiration to the group before they headed on the road for 5+ hours to go knock on doors and Get Out To Vote!

Then CU Church where I had several folks wish me luck when I passed them in the hallway. Then to canvass for and with Faraci for Senate, Jarrett Clem, and others, with energizing words from State Treasurer Mike Frerichs and Senate President Don Harmon. Thank you Sara and Brittany for joining me to canvass in Champaign and join me for a post-canvass beverage.

It's election-day eve, and all of the activities on the campaign trail this weekend refreshed me and made me feel the love and appreciation for everyone I've met during the past 3.5+ years since I decided to run for this office. THANK YOU ALL- remind your friends to vote tomorrow!

11/03/2024

Cast your vote today, tomorrow, or on Tuesday, Election Day... only two full days before the election!

You can preview your ballot here: https://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/my-voting-information/who-represents-me-0

11/02/2024

Three days till Election Day! What's your plan to vote? I'll be out canvassing today and tomorrow, knocking on doors and meeting people, putting in the work to earn your vote.

Learn more about my positions at

Laurie BrauerForChampaign County Coroner I’m the more qualified candidate to be the Champaign County Coroner because I’ve spent the majority of my career at the intersection of healthcare and public safety- a very unique background for a very unique position.  My experience includes:Deputy Coro...

11/01/2024

Only FOUR days left to cast your vote in the general election!

You can find a sample ballot along with the closest polling places to you here: http://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/my-voting-information/who-represents-me-0

Enjoy the sunshine and remember to let your voice be heard!

10/30/2024

The Daily Illini interviewed my opponent and me and also reviewed our platforms and vision for the office.

Please share with your friends who are undecided in this race.

Here's their assessment:

At the start of the semester, during Quad Day, I was told some local politicians were hanging out at the Illini Democrats’ tent. It was there I found out that the county coroner position is partisan and will be decided by voters this election. Funnily enough, the coroner is one of the most content...

10/29/2024

I'm almost to the finish line—but I'm not letting up!

Campaigning to earn your vote is the most exhausting but rewarding professional thing I've ever done.

In case you missed them, here are my responses to The News-Gazette's Election Questionnaire. Please share with any undecided friends you might have!

One week to go! What's your plan to vote?