Mark Thomas running for a fifth term as Knox Co. Coroner

Mark Thomas has been Knox County Coroner for 14 years and he would like to do it for at least four more.

Thomas has confirmed to WGIL that he is circulating petitions in order to run for a fifth term as a Democrat.

No challengers have emerged yet. Thomas won handily the two times he faced an opponent, once again Geoffrey Hurd in 2004 and against Stephen Anderson in 2016.

He says through his 14 years experience as Coroner and prior 6 years as Deputy Coroner he’s gained a vast amount of knowledge and experience.

When asked about changes over his time in office Thomas cited the county’s aging population and social media as the two biggest.

Thomas says social media has amplified public opinion of his office on certain issues but he’s embracing the changes.

Even though he’s been at it for a while, he says just getting by on the “status quo” is not his style.

Currently, he says the coroner’s office is the process of digitizing record keeping which will make accessing files easier.

Thomas says he’s tried to remain involved in the community constantly and not just pop-up every four years for election season.

The coroner’s responsibilities include investigating sudden deaths, conducting inquiries into unusual deaths and issues cremation permits.

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