Republicans believe they can win during the 2026 midterms because of President Donald Trump and impacts from his "Big Beautiful Bill."

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — There was a sea of red shirts at the Illinois State Fair Thursday as Republicans from across the state had the chance to enjoy a picnic with their favorite state leaders and candidates on GOP Day.

Republicans believe they can win during the 2026 midterms because of President Donald Trump and the impact of his "Big Beautiful Bill." Although some are concerned that the Illinois GOP will not be able to put up a fight against Gov. JB Pritzker and other Democratic candidates.

Trump has continued to influence the state's Republican party, as more moderates retire and MAGA Republicans take office. The Illinois GOP tent was full of posters highlighting conservative values and goals. 

Yet, many lawmakers and party insiders know the Illinois GOP has a tough battle coming in 2026. Some GOP county chairs have suggested the party is in disarray.

"There's always room for change," said Rep. CD Davidsmeyer (R-Jacksonville). "I don't think you always had to tear it down and build it back up. I think we have an organization that is busier in the last few years than I had seen a decade ago. It's interesting to see the energy that's coming through. Some of the people who are new to the party and some of the people that have been around for a long time are learning from each other."

Republicans said they are tired of Democrats taking money out of their pockets and trying to control their lives with radical laws. GOP Chair Kathy Salvi said there is a "blue mold" over Illinois full of incompetence, death, corruption, waste and delusion.

"We believe in lower taxes and free speech. That's why you hear so many diverse opinions in our party," Salvi said. "God love it. If you want to have the iron fist of governance, go to a Marxist or communist country. Live a little while in Springfield."

However, Tazewell County GOP Chair Jim Rule said people are fed up and morale is low within the Illinois GOP. He posted on Facebook earlier this week that there is no confidence in the ability to win and the party is not prepared to turn Illinois red.

One candidate hoping to change that message is former GOP Chair Don Tracy, now throwing his hat in the ring for Dick Durbin's Senate seat.

"The Democratic politicians are opening the door for that with their left-wing tilt," Tracy said. "As they become more socialistic, they are more and more running against Illinois families and not for them. I am running for Illinois working families." 

Republican supporters did not hear from any candidates for governor at the fairgrounds Thursday, although DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick is running, and conservative think tank Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski plans to launch his campaign in the coming weeks. 

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