As part of 2026 “The Safety We Deserve” campaign, national gun violence prevention PAC endorses two Illinois leaders committed to delivering the accountability and gun reforms voters demand
Today, Brady PAC, the political arm of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (“Brady”), today announced endorsements in two critical Illinois contests, backing candidates with proven records of advocating for and advancing gun violence prevention policies.
These endorsements are part of Brady PAC’s 2026 “The Safety We Deserve” campaign – a national effort to turn out voters and elect leaders at the local, state, and federal levels who will deliver gun industry accountability and sensible gun reforms in office.
“We urge voters to send Cleopatra Cowley and Adam Braun to Springfield to build on Illinois’ record of gun safety progress in the legislature. They are champions who have proven that they will take on the tough fights and hold the gun industry accountable,” said Kris Brown, President of Brady and Board Chair of Brady PAC.
“Cleopatra Cowley knows the heartache that no parent should ever bear in the loss of her daughter Hadiya to preventable gun violence. She has transformed her grief into action and she fights every single day for systemic change and a brighter future for every Illinois family,” Brown continued.
“Adam Braun’s record on public safety is unimpeachable, and his leadership as Deputy Attorney General and beyond has saved countless lives. We are eager to work with Adam as the next State Representative for the 13th District,” Brown said.
Brady PAC will mobilize grassroots supporters and make strategic investments this cycle.
Brady PAC-Endorsed Illinois Candidates include:
Cleopatra Cowley (HD-34)
Cleopatra Cowley is a mother and national gun violence prevention leader. Her daughter, Hadiya Pendleton, was killed by preventable gun violence on January 29, 2013 in Chicago’s Harsh Park. This is Cowley’s first run for elected office.
Adam Braun (HD-13)
Adam Braun is a parent and a long-time gun violence prevention leader in Illinois. As Deputy Attorney General, he aggressively took on gun trafficking and other issues to keep children and communities safe. His efforts led to the General Assembly passing the Firearm Industry Responsibility Act in 2023, holding the industry accountable for unlawful sales and marketing tactics.
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Founded thanks to the leadership of Republicans Jim and Sarah Brady, Brady PAC elects gun violence prevention leaders up and down the ballot who will enact life-saving policies and hold the gun industry accountable. It upholds the ideals championed by its partner Brady, the nation’s oldest gun violence prevention organization.
