Capitol News Illinois is reporting that Darren Bailey plans to run for governor for a second time in 2026, according to sources close to the candidate.
The former state representative, state senator and farmer from Xenia in Clay County would be the highest profile Republican candidate to enter the race. Bailey lost the 2022 election to incumbent Governor J.B. Pritzker and a close primary race in 2024 to incumbent 12th District Congressman Mike Bost of Murphysboro.
It is anticipated that a formal announcement will be made sometime next week.
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