Illinois voters return to the polls on Nov. 3, 2026, to decide whether Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker will secure a historic third term against Republican challenger Darren Bailey.
Key points
- The 2026 Illinois gubernatorial race is a direct rematch between incumbent JB Pritzker and challenger Darren Bailey.
- Key campaign issues include property tax increases and higher fuel costs, which Bailey attributes to Pritzker’s administration.
- Pritzker highlights the fact that former President Trump endorsed his opponent, framing it as a political liability for Bailey.
- Early voting indicates strong participation, especially in Chicago, signaling high voter interest ahead of the November 3 election.
On Election Day, Illinois voters will decide the state’s top executive office, with the governor’s race listed first on the ballot, according to ABC7 Chicago.
Democratic Governor JB Pritzker is running for a third term, a bid that would make him the first Illinois governor to do so, while Republican Darren Bailey is again the party’s nominee, setting up a direct rematch from the previous cycle.
Rematch Highlights
Bailey’s campaign is centering its message on blaming Pritzker for rising property taxes and higher gasoline prices, urging voters to hold the incumbent accountable for those costs.
Pritzker, meanwhile, says he is not worried about the election but cautions that voters should not take anything for granted, emphasizing the need for continued engagement.
Campaign Issues
The incumbent also points to a political twist: President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Bailey, a fact Pritzker is using as a campaign talking point to rally Democratic voters.
Early voting data show a surge in turnout in Chicago and steady participation in suburban Cook County as both candidates make final appeals to voters.
Reader questions
When is the Illinois gubernatorial election?
The election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
What issues are the candidates emphasizing?
Bailey is focusing on property taxes and gasoline prices, while Pritzker is warning voters not to be complacent and noting the presidential endorsement of his opponent.
How is early voting shaping up?
Early voting turnout is rising in Chicago and remaining steady in suburban Cook County as the candidates make their final pushes.
Source: abc7chicago.com
