Darren Bailey | Darren Bailey / Facebook
Darren Bailey | Darren Bailey / Facebook
Darren Bailey, a candidate for Congressional District 12, marked a significant milestone in his campaign by filing his petitions for the upcoming March 19 primary ballot. Bailey, a former state senator and representative who faced Gov. J.B. Pritzker for the governorship in 2022, emphasized his dedication to being a grassroots candidate, expressing his commitment to working tirelessly for the people of District 12.
“Today I showed up to file my petitions and waited in line and talked with people who want to make a difference for Illinois. My opponent showed up chatted with media off to the side for a few minutes and left so someone else could file his,” Bailey said on Facebook.
“Friends, I'll always be the boots, jeans, and Carhartt-wearing farmer who likes to get his hands dirty, talk with people face to face, and fight for what's right. It's beyond time to change Washington and get the government working for us again.”
“I can promise you this, no one in this race will work harder for you. I will listen to and fight for the families of our district to bring opportunities, stand up for our freedoms and restore common sense in Washington.”
The filing of petitions took place within the broader election season in Illinois, which commenced on Sept. 5. Candidates actively collected signatures to secure a spot on the March 19 primary ballot. The State of Illinois set a deadline for submitting candidate petitions to the County Clerk between Monday, Nov. 27, at 8 am and the final day, Monday, Dec. 4, at 5 pm, allowing for both in-person and mail submissions according to the 2024 Candidate Guide.
The March 19 primary holds significant importance for Illinois voters as they will not only choose local representatives but also participate in selecting presidential nominees for both the Democratic and Republican parties. Additionally, the primary will determine the delegates who will represent the state in the parties' conventions scheduled for August.
Illinois' 12th Congressional District comprises the entirety of Southern Illinois, including Monroe, Randolph, Clinton, Perry, Jackson, Union, Alexander, Pulaski, Massac, Johnson, Williamson, Jefferson, Marion, Clay, Effingham, Wayne, Hamilton, Saline, Pope, Hardin, Gallatin, White, Edwards, Wabash, Richland, Lawrence, Jasper, Crawford, Cumberland and Clark Counties. It also includes most of St. Clair County and half of Coles County.
The 12th Congressional District is currently held by U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL).
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