CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Aaron Del Mar, former youngest-ever councilman for the Village of Palatine and seasoned political leader, is joining Darren Bailey on the Illinois gubernatorial ticket to advocate for pro-business policies, less government, and bipartisan collaboration across the state.

Del Mar, who has served in multiple elected positions including Palatine Township Committeeman, Cook County Republican Party Chairman, and President of the Inverness Fire Protection District, said he and Bailey didn’t always see eye-to-eye.

“At first, Darren and I didn’t even like each other,” Del Mar said. “I was a Chicago suburban guy with a certain perspective; he was a downstate farmer with a completely different day-to-day life. But as we talked, we realized our values weren’t far apart. We both care about creating opportunities, supporting local businesses, and cutting red tape.”

Known for his history of working across party lines, Del Mar believes Illinois can benefit from pragmatism and common-sense governance. “Even with a Democratic supermajority, there are checks and balances at the judicial, legislative, and executive level. Plenty of Blue Dog Democrats are tired of the status quo and will support a message that’s pro-business and focused on less government,” he said.

Del Mar said his approach to politics is guided by a simple principle: “Everyone wants good governance. I want whoever is in the White House to work well with whomever is in the governor’s mansion in Illinois because it affects all of us.” He added “JB Pritzker hates Donald Trump more than he loves Illinois. That’s not good for anyone.”

Beyond politics, Del Mar brings an unusual personal background to his candidacy. “I used to be a cage match MMA fighter,” he said. “It makes me uniquely qualified to be a Republican in Illinois,” he added with a grin, highlighting his resilience and competitive drive.

Del Mar, who has won 14 of the 15 elections he’s run in, emphasized that his campaign is about representing the entire state, not just Chicago or downstate Illinois. “I know I have to govern all of Illinois—from north of I-80 to south of I-80. The people deserve leadership that works for everyone, not just one region,” he said.

Reflecting on his partnership with Bailey, Del Mar said, “Darren and I come from different backgrounds, but we share the same goal: a thriving, efficient, and accountable Illinois government. That’s the message we want to take to voters this year.”

Del Mar also underscored his commitment to bipartisan outreach. “I’ve spent my career connecting with people across party lines. It’s not about red or blue—it’s about good ideas and effective governance.”