Particle.news
Download on the App Store
5 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Bailey Launches 2026 Rematch Against Pritzker, Taps Cook County GOP Chair Aaron Del Mar as Running Mate

The ticket now turns to qualifying for the March 17 primary ballot in a still-unsettled Republican field.

Former state Sen. Darren Bailey speaks at a rally in support of the SAVE Act, a bill that would require states to obtain documentary proof of citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections, on Sept. 2, 2025, in Orland Park. The rally was organized by Tea Party Patriots Action. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
Image
Image

Overview

  • Del Mar confirmed he will serve as Bailey’s lieutenant governor candidate, with a formal campaign announcement expected later this month.
  • Sources say the Bailey–Del Mar effort will emphasize business, public safety and education while softening past messaging on abortion and gun rights to court suburban voters.
  • The campaign is preparing to circulate petitions to secure a spot on the March 17, 2026 Republican primary ballot.
  • Gov. J.B. Pritzker is seeking a third consecutive term with Christian Mitchell as his running mate, after defeating Bailey 55% to 42% in 2022.
  • Other GOP hopefuls include Ted Dabrowski and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick, who has filed a defamation suit alleging a rival promoted a planned deepfake video against him.