CHICAGO (WLS) — After defeating Republican Darren Bailey in the 2022 gubernatorial election, Gov. JB Pritzker may face him again, as the former state senator reportedly plans to run once more, according to the Cook County Republican Party chairman’s announcement on Tuesday.
Since his 2022 run, Bailey has stayed close to President Donald Trump, attending rallies and speaking highly of the president.
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Bailey also lost the congressional race in 2024 against U.S. Rep. Mike Bost.
Cook County Republican Party Chairman Aaron Del Mar said he will be his running mate.
“Two influential conservative figures are joining forces to bring together Republicans throughout Illinois. Darren Bailey and Aaron Del Mar are forming a partnership to connect downstate and suburban conservatives, invigorate our grassroots efforts, and provide voters with a clear alternative to the unsuccessful policies of J.B. Pritzker and Brandon Johnson. This ticket symbolizes unity, strength, and a dedication to restoring public safety, reducing taxes, and making Illinois a place where families and businesses can prosper once more,” the campaign stated.
Pritzker previously announced he will run for reelection, with former state Rep. Christian Mitchell as his running mate.
He is the first Illinois governor since the late former Republican Gov. Jim Thompson to seek a third consecutive term.
Over the past months, there has been a lot of speculation over whether the governor might run for president.
“I’m running for governor of Illinois: That is four more years,” Pritzker said.
Joseph Severino is also running as a Republican, with Rantch Isquith as a running mate.
Ted Dabrowski, president of the conservative research group Wirepoints, also announced his candidacy.
DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick also announced his candidacy.
Antioch Mayor Scott Gartner announced Sunday that he may run as a Republican in 2026.
Gartner called this an exploratory move, and says he remains fully committed to being mayor of Antioch.
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