Trump Endorses Darren Bailey in Illinois Governor’s Race (Chicago, IL) – President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Darren Bailey in his campaign for governor of Illinois, calling Bailey a “very good candidate” and saying, “I’m all for Bailey.”
Trump made the comments while speaking with reporters before departing Ireland. His endorsement comes as Bailey campaigns to challenge Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker in the 2026 gubernatorial election.
The endorsement follows Bailey’s recent appearance at a Republican National Convention event in Dallas, where he was photographed in the “President’s Box” alongside other Republican officials and supporters. U.S. Rep. Mike Bost of Illinois shared a photograph from the event on social media.
Bailey previously sought Bost’s congressional seat in the Republican primary two years ago, while Trump endorsed Bost in that contest.
Trump has been a prominent figure in Illinois Republican politics, and his endorsement of Bailey adds his support to the Republican candidate as the 2026 governor’s race develops.
Pritzker responded to Trump’s endorsement on social media, criticizing Bailey’s association with the former president and Trump’s policies. Pritzker said Illinois voters should reject what he described as “MAGA policies.”
The Pritzker campaign also pointed to Bailey’s previous support for Trump and several of the administration’s policies.
Bailey has continued his campaign for governor as Republicans seek to challenge Pritzker, who is seeking another term as Illinois governor.
Trump is scheduled to return to the Chicago area later this month for the Presidents Cup golf tournament at Medinah Country Club, which is scheduled for Sept. 22-27. The event has prompted questions about whether Trump could make additional campaign appearances while in the region.
The 2026 Illinois gubernatorial election will take place Nov. 3, 2026.
Trump Endorses Darren Bailey in Illinois Governor’s Race
