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Colfax Today
By the People, for the People
Whitman County Coroner Endorses Chief Deputy for Post
Annie Pillers will not seek re-election, backs Cassie Richardson to succeed her
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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Whitman County Coroner Annie Pillers announced she will not run for re-election in 2026, and is endorsing her Chief Deputy Cassie Richardson to succeed her as the next Whitman County Coroner. Pillers has served in the coroner's office since 2008 and was first elected coroner in 2018. Richardson has served as a deputy coroner since 2022 and was promoted to chief deputy last year.
Why it matters
Pillers' endorsement of Richardson is expected to give Richardson a significant advantage in the upcoming election, as Pillers has built a strong reputation for professionalism and integrity during her tenure. The Whitman County Coroner's office plays a critical role in investigating deaths and providing closure to grieving families.
The details
Pillers said the last 17 years have been the most privileged time of her life and that the service has 'shaped my soul in ways never imagined.' Richardson has a degree in chemistry and forensic science and over ten years of laboratory work experience. She is a Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission certified medicolegal death investigator and is pursuing national certification. Richardson says she wants to build on the legacy of professionalism, compassion and integrity established by Pillers.
- Pillers announced her retirement on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
- Richardson announced her campaign for Whitman County Coroner on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
- Candidate filing for seats up for election this year in Washington runs in May 2026.
The players
Annie Pillers
The current Whitman County Coroner who is not seeking re-election and is endorsing her Chief Deputy to succeed her.
Cassie Richardson
The Chief Deputy Coroner in Whitman County who is running to succeed Annie Pillers as the next Whitman County Coroner.
What they’re saying
“The last 17 years have been the most privileged time of my life and the service has 'shaped my soul in ways never imagined.'”
— Annie Pillers, Whitman County Coroner (dailyfly.com)
“I want to build on the legacy of professionalism, compassion and integrity established by Pillers.”
— Cassie Richardson, Candidate for Whitman County Coroner (dailyfly.com)
What’s next
Candidate filing for seats up for election this year in Washington runs in May 2026, so Richardson will need to officially file her candidacy in the coming months.
The takeaway
Pillers' endorsement of her Chief Deputy Richardson is expected to give Richardson a significant advantage in the upcoming election, as Pillers has built a strong reputation for professionalism and integrity during her tenure. This transition of power in the Whitman County Coroner's office will be an important one, as the office plays a critical role in investigating deaths and providing closure to grieving families.
