CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Former state lawmaker Darren Bailey says his latest campaign for governor is driven by a sense of purpose rather than personal ambition, as he outlined priorities and reflected on his political approach.

Bailey, who served in the Illinois General Assembly from 2019 to 2021, said he did not initially plan to run again this election cycle.

“In mid-July, I wasn’t thinking about running,” Bailey said. “But people kept calling and encouraging me. My wife and I prayed about it, and it became clear this wasn’t about personal desire — it was a calling.”

He added that he believes his path to victory is viable, citing growing frustration among voters and what he described as a lack of effective leadership within his party. “I realized the right people weren’t helping to advance the Republican brand,” he said. “That’s when I knew I needed to step forward.”

Bailey identified three central issues driving his campaign: affordability, public safety, and education. “Affordability is at the top of the list,” he said. “We’ve seen massive property tax hikes that are putting a real burden on families.”

On public safety, Bailey pointed to staffing shortages in law enforcement, particularly in Chicago. “There are around 1,600 vacancies in the Chicago Police Department,” he said. “That has a direct impact on safety, not just in the city but across the state.”

Education reform is another cornerstone of his platform, with Bailey citing concerning literacy rates. “About 70% of students outside Chicago are not reading and writing at grade level, and that number climbs to 90% in the Chicagoland area,” he said. “That’s unacceptable, and it’s something we have to address immediately.”

Throughout the interview, Bailey emphasized his willingness to work across political divides, describing it as one of his key strengths. “We absolutely must come to the table,” he said. “My greatest strength is being able to push aside politics and bring people together.”

Bailey said that during his time in office, he built relationships with lawmakers from both parties. “Even those I disagreed with respected me because I respected them,” he said. “I’ve worked with Democrats on legislation when they needed support, and I’ll continue to do that.”

Reflecting on his previous campaigns, Bailey noted that voters have responded to his consistency and accessibility. “People know I stand on my convictions, but I also listen,” he said. “I’ve always been willing to step outside and talk to anyone, no matter their background or beliefs.”

He also voiced strong support for term limits, arguing that the current political system discourages participation. “Too many people feel like their vote doesn’t matter,” he said. “Term limits would give more people a chance and help restore confidence in government.”

If elected, Bailey said he would bring a practical, no-nonsense approach to governing. “My style is simple — if something needs to be fixed, you fix it,” he said. “We don’t keep talking about it or pass the burden on to taxpayers.”

Amid policy discussions, Bailey also shared a personal update about his family, including his grandson, following a recent tragedy. “We had an amazing weekend over Easter,” he said. “He’s doing very well. We’re blessed.”

Bailey said the family is working with a counselor and focusing on stability and support. “We’re preparing for what might lie ahead, but he knows where his family is, and we know where we’re at,” he said. “That gives us hope and comfort, and that makes all the difference.”

Bailey also addressed the personal adjustments that would come with serving as Governor, including relocating from southern Illinois to Springfield. He said his family and business operations are prepared for the transition. “We’ve spent the last several years making sure everything is in place at the farm and the school,” he said. “I look forward to bringing life back to Springfield and opening up the Governor’s mansion again.”

Looking ahead, Bailey said engaging younger voters will be critical to his campaign’s success. “That 20-to-35 age group is the one we need to reach,” he said. “Civics education has declined, and we need to help people understand just how important voting is.”

Despite the challenges ahead, Bailey expressed optimism about the campaign and its message. “I believe people are ready for something different,” he said. “They’re ready for leadership that listens, works hard and puts them first.”

Bailey encouraged voters to learn more about his campaign and platform online. “Our website, BaileyForIllinois.com, is the best place to start,” he said. “We also have BlueprintForIllinois.com, which lays out a comprehensive plan for how we want to move the state forward.”

He added that voters can follow his campaign on social media, particularly Facebook, where he frequently shares updates and interacts with constituents, as well as on X under the handle @DarrenBaileyIL.