SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — It is 2026, but many Illinoisans may be feeling like it is 2022 all over again as Gov. JB Pritzker will faceoff against Darren Bailey for the second time. 

Pritzker celebrated alongside his running mate Christian Mitchell, his wife MK and other top Democratic leaders. The governor said supporters can expect to see him work on lowering utility bills and the cost of healthcare while raising wages and building the Illinois workforce.

Pritzker only spoke about Bailey for a few minutes during his victory speech Tuesday night, but the Democrat stressed Illinois does not want to see the southern Illinois Republican in power.

"He wants to lower the minimum wage," Pritzker said. "He wants to take away a woman's right to choose. He wants to continue the Trump tariff taxes on groceries."

Meanwhile, Bailey ended his 60th birthday becoming the GOP nominee alongside Aaron Del Mar. Bailey said he wants to unite the state around faith, family and hardworking people. 

The Republican told supporters Illinois is less affordable under Pritzker's leadership and many voters he met along the campaign trail have demanded change.

"Illinois doesn't need another four years of a governor who decrees from the top down and looks down on the people who actually make this state work," Bailey said. "We've tried that approach for 24 years in this state under both parties." 

You can expect to see another intense battle until November 3. 

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