Illinois Governor Race Remains Intact After Family Tragedy
The Illinois Republican primary for governor has taken a dramatic turn as former state legislator Darren Bailey announced he will continue his campaign despite the devastating loss of his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren in a helicopter crash. The tragedy occurred just over two weeks ago, leaving Bailey's family "the hardest days of our lives," but also reminding him and his wife Cindy of their reason for running.
Bailey shared his emotions in a heartfelt video message posted to social media, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and strangers. He acknowledged that his son Zachary was flying the helicopter at the time of the crash and paid tribute to his memory, stating, "Zach and Kelsey believed in an Illinois where families could build a future without being crushed by bad government and broken promises."
Bailey's decision to stay in the race is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and his vision for a better Illinois. He cited the tragic loss of his family as fueling his determination, saying, "This tragedy changed our family forever, but it also reminded us why we fight... We're staying in this race not for politics, but for every family trying to make it in a state that's lost its way."
President Donald Trump was among those urging Bailey to continue fighting, according to the former legislator. With the hard-line conservative at the helm of the GOP primary field, Bailey will be competing against six other candidates vying for the nomination.
The Illinois governor election is set to take place on March 17, 2026. Despite concerns over petition objections filed by several candidates, Bailey's entry into the race remains intact, and he appears poised to make a strong showing in the general election.
The Illinois Republican primary for governor has taken a dramatic turn as former state legislator Darren Bailey announced he will continue his campaign despite the devastating loss of his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren in a helicopter crash. The tragedy occurred just over two weeks ago, leaving Bailey's family "the hardest days of our lives," but also reminding him and his wife Cindy of their reason for running.
Bailey shared his emotions in a heartfelt video message posted to social media, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support from friends, family, and strangers. He acknowledged that his son Zachary was flying the helicopter at the time of the crash and paid tribute to his memory, stating, "Zach and Kelsey believed in an Illinois where families could build a future without being crushed by bad government and broken promises."
Bailey's decision to stay in the race is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service and his vision for a better Illinois. He cited the tragic loss of his family as fueling his determination, saying, "This tragedy changed our family forever, but it also reminded us why we fight... We're staying in this race not for politics, but for every family trying to make it in a state that's lost its way."
President Donald Trump was among those urging Bailey to continue fighting, according to the former legislator. With the hard-line conservative at the helm of the GOP primary field, Bailey will be competing against six other candidates vying for the nomination.
The Illinois governor election is set to take place on March 17, 2026. Despite concerns over petition objections filed by several candidates, Bailey's entry into the race remains intact, and he appears poised to make a strong showing in the general election.
I'm still trying to process this news... losing a child is unimaginable 
. My heart goes out to Darren Bailey and his family during this incredibly tough time 
. It's amazing how tragedy can sometimes fuel someone's determination for public service 
. As a parent, it's hard not to think about the what-ifs, but I hope Darren finds some comfort in knowing that his son Zachary's legacy lives on through his campaign 
. This is going to be a wild ride ahead, and I'm both fascinated and concerned by how this will impact the election 
his son was flying it, you can just imagine how hard it must be for him and his family right now 
I feel so bad for him and his wife Cindy, they're going through a tough time 
March 17, 2026 can't come soon enough 
his son was a hero pilot who wanted to make Illinois a better place for families like him... it's really inspiring to see how his loss can fuel his determination 2 keep pushing 4 change 
the fact that Trump himself told him 2 keep going shows how much people respect what he stands 4
. As a parent urself u gotta wonder what could've been done differently 
. Anyways, wish his family all the best in healin up from this 
. can only imagine the weight of grief & determination 
bailey seems like a real mens man, dont no much about politics, but u can tell he's in it 4 the people 
Does this change of circumstances make him more driven to win the governor's seat? I hope he stays focused on his campaign promises, not just about being an anti-establishment candidate... 
it's amazing how some people can stay so focused on what matters most, even when life throws them curveballs 
i'm keeping my fingers crossed for him! 
