UPDATE: Republican candidate Darren Bailey resumes his campaign for Illinois governor just weeks after a devastating personal tragedy. On October 22, 2023, a helicopter crash in southeastern Montana claimed the lives of four family members, including Bailey’s son, Zachary, and two grandchildren, Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7.
In a heartfelt announcement made on December 1, 2023, Bailey expressed his determination to rebuild both his life and his political aspirations. He is also taking care of Finn, 10, the surviving child of Zachary and Kelsey Bailey, who was not on the aircraft.
Bailey, who is facing off against six other candidates for the Republican nomination, remarked, “I just saw complete goodness” in the overwhelming support he received from across the political spectrum. He emphasized how this experience has heightened his sense of compassion, stating, “I haven’t always been diligent about expressing my sympathy, my care, my love.”
The former state senator is preparing for a rematch against incumbent Governor JB Pritzker, who defeated Bailey by nearly 13 percentage points in the last election. Bailey’s campaign will focus on key issues like affordability, education, and public safety, aiming to resonate with a broader audience in Illinois. He admitted, “We know what has to be different from the last time,” and highlighted the importance of understanding regional differences.
Bailey, who turns 60 on March 17, 2024, is aware of the challenges ahead, particularly with some financial backers shifting their support to rival candidates. He faces strong competition from conservative activist Ted Dabrowski and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick. Despite this, Bailey remains optimistic about his grassroots support, insisting that his dedicated network of volunteers is still intact.
The candidate reiterated his commitment to improving Illinois, saying, “I owe my son and my grandchildren this continued path of how I believe we get Illinois back on track.” He is confident that voters will eventually recognize his vision for the state.
Bailey also discussed his feelings towards the city of Chicago, acknowledging past criticisms while expressing a desire to understand the city’s pride and potential for greatness. “I’m asking people to forgo my accent…I want to be who I am because that’s how I got here,” he stated.
As he re-enters the political arena, Bailey prepares to unveil plans addressing pressing issues such as rising property taxes and educational improvements. His campaign strategy will also involve a comprehensive audit of state spending, drawing attention to what he sees as excessive government expenditure under Pritzker’s administration.
With the National Transportation Safety Board indicating it may take up to two years to determine the cause of the helicopter crash, Bailey continues to draw strength from his family’s support, especially as Finn adjusts to life after the tragedy. “I needed the compassion from others because I may have been a little too hard-hearted or rough around the edges,” he admitted.
The urgency of Bailey’s campaign is palpable as he seeks to connect with voters across Illinois, emphasizing a message of unity and shared concerns. As the political landscape heats up, all eyes will be on Bailey’s next moves leading up to the primary elections.
Stay tuned for updates as Bailey’s campaign unfolds and the race for Illinois governor intensifies.