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Darren Bailey Says He Will Stay in Illinois Governor’s Race After Deadly Family Helicopter Crash

He credits faith plus a call from President Trump for staying in the race.

Overview

  • Bailey announced the decision in a video posted Monday, about three weeks after the Oct. 22 crash in rural Montana.
  • The crash killed his son, Zachary, daughter-in-law, Kelsey, and grandchildren Vada Rose, 12, and Samuel, 7; 10-year-old Finn was not aboard.
  • Bailey and his wife have taken guardianship of Finn, according to family statements reported by local outlets.
  • The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, and officials have not identified a cause.
  • Campaign activity remains limited as surrogates, including running mate Aaron Del Mar, appear at events, with a seven-candidate GOP field already filed for the March 17, 2026 primary.