Republican Darren Bailey launches second Illinois gubernatorial campaign with Aaron Del Mar

Darren Bailey, a former Illinois state senator and farmer, has officially launched his second campaign for governor, aiming to challenge incumbent Democratic Governor JB Pritzker in the 2026 election. Bailey, who lost to Pritzker by a significant margin in 2022, positions himself as a conservative champion and ally of President Donald Trump, emphasizing themes of protecting families, freedom, and restoring hope for Illinois' future. His running mate is Aaron Del Mar, the Cook County Republican Party chairman and former young councilman from Palatine. Bailey is currently considered the frontrunner in the Republican primary, which also includes candidates like DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick, businessman Joe Severino, and conservative researcher Ted Dabrowski. Pritzker has announced his intention to seek a third term, with no other Democrats yet declaring candidacy. Bailey’s campaign kickoff included stops in Carterville, Bloomington, and Oak Brook, highlighting his commitment to downstate Illinois and conservative causes.