Who is Republican Darren Bailey? A peek into the life of Illinois Governor presumptive nominee

The heated six-way race for the Illinois Governor Republican nomination is now over. According to NBC News projections, State Sen. Darren Bailey is the clear winner. Bailey, one of the biggest competitors of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s, is all set to go head to head against the incumbent governor. The general election for Illinois Governor will take place in November. If Bailey wins, he will become the third Republican governor of Illinois in the last 24 years.

Brief Biography
Darren Bailey is a 56-year-old Republican who was born in Louisville, Illinois. He holds an associate degree from Lake Land College. Bailey has a farm in downstate Illinois which he runs and operates.


Darren Bailey was married to Cindy Stortzum in 1986. The couple has four children together.

Bailey has served for one term in the Illinois House. This was before he ran for the state Senate in the 55th district. Here, he had defeated his Democrat rival Cynthia Given in 2020.

Bailey made a name for himself on the political radar when he sued Pritzker’s administration over its pandemic stay-at-home order. He was handed over a temporary restraining order from a Clay County judge.This was, however, overturned on appeal.

In February 2021, Darren Bailey made an announcement of his decision to run for governor. For his running mate, Bailey chose Stephanie Trussell.

Policy Stances

Abortion:
Bailey is a big proponent of anti-abortion policy. He was delighted with the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v Wade and welcomed the decision. He plans to work against abortion access in the state of Illinois.

Gun Rights:
Bailey, just like most Republicans, is strongly against most gun control legislation. He highlights the importance of education for those opposed to gun rights.

Taxation:
Bailey believes in reducing income and property taxes in the state of Illinois.