Darren Bailey is a third-generation farmer, former Illinois state representative (2019-2021) and state senator (2021-2023) from rural Clay County (Xenia area). He is the Republican nominee for governor in 2026, seeking a rematch against incumbent Pritzker after losing by 12.5 percentage points in 2022. Bailey gained prominence during COVID-19 for challenging Governor Pritzker's mask mandates and business closures. He is described by news outlets as holding far-right political views, opposes abortion rights, and has criticized Pritzker on taxes, government spending, public safety, and affordability. In his 2026 campaign, Bailey has pivoted toward suburban voters and claims to have moderated his tone after a family tragedy in October 2025.
Darren Lee Bailey was born March 17, 1966 in Louisville, Illinois, a rural community in Clay County. He is a third-generation farmer who owns Bailey Family Farm and operates it with his sons. He earned an Associate of Science degree in Agricultural Production from Lake Land College. Before entering state politics, Bailey served 17 years on the North Clay Board of Education (12 years as president) and co-founded Full Armor Christian Academy (private Christian school) with his wife Cindy Stortzum. He served in Illinois House (2019-2021) and Senate (2021-2023) representing rural southern Illinois. Married to Cindy for 39+ years; has four children (one deceased as of Oct. 2025) and multiple grandchildren. Bailey has been active in Rotary and Gideons community organizations.