Illinois’ 2026 gubernatorial race is set for a November 3 general election, with Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker seeking a third consecutive term — a feat no Democratic governor has previously achieved in state history.
Pritzker, the Democratic incumbent, is being challenged by Republican Darren Bailey, a former gubernatorial nominee, after both candidates emerged from the March 17 primary election. Pritzker’s running mate for lieutenant governor is Christian Mitchell, a former state representative and deputy governor, while Bailey is running alongside Aaron Del Mar. WikipediaWikipedia
The Republican primary drew a crowded field before narrowing to Bailey as the nominee. Candidates in that race included Ted Dabrowski, a conservative news website president, and Rick Heidner, a real estate developer, among others who sought the GOP nomination.
On the campaign trail, Pritzker has focused on continuing the priorities of his first two terms. According to his campaign platform, his third-term priorities include addressing the state’s affordability crisis, protecting access to reproductive health care, and increasing investment in education. nbcchicago
If reelected, Pritzker would become the first Democratic governor in Illinois history to serve three consecutive terms, a milestone that has added national attention to a race already being watched as a bellwether for Illinois politics heading into 2027 municipal races.
Illinois News Today will continue following the race through Election Day, including coverage of both campaigns’ events, debates, and key ballot issues facing voters statewide.