Darren Bailey announces second run for Illinois governor in 2026

(WAND) - Republican candidate Darren Bailey announced that he will run for a second time for Illinois governor against Democratic challenger JB Pritzker.

Bailey announced his candidacy on Facebook Thursday, saying, "I’m leaving the farm to fight for you — for your family, your freedom and the future of Illinois."

His running mate will be Aaron Del Mar, who began his political career as the youngest-ever councilman for the Village of Palatine, according to Bailey's campaign website.

Pritzker announced in June that he would run for his third term as Illinois governor. To date, no other Democrats have publicly announced their candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial election.

Pritzker won re-election over Bailey in the 2022 election after receiving 55% of the vote.

Other Republican challengers include DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick, who announced his candidacy in February, businessman Joe Severino announced in April and Conservative researcher Ted Dabrowski announced earlier this month.

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