Politics & Government
Bailey Regrets Calling Chicago 'Hellhole' In New Video: IL Gubernatorial Election 2026
The Republican nominee for governor infamously characterized the city during his last run for the state's top spot four years ago.
CHICAGO — It appears all it took was deep dish pizza and a Cubs game, among a few other things, to change Republican Illinois Gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey's opinion on the Windy City.
In an attempt to redeem himself with voters, the 60-year-old downstate farmer released a video Sunday in which he admitted calling Chicago a "hellhole" during his unsuccessful 2022 campaign for the state's top spot. Last month, Bailey secured his party's nomination during the Illinois primary election, setting up a November rematch with Governor JB Pritzker.
RELATED: Republican Bailey Wins IL Gubernatorial Primary — AP
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"I said something I'm certainly not too proud to admit I'm wrong," Bailey said alongside Aaron Del Mar, his choice for lieutenant governor on the GOP ticket, as the two made their way around the city trying famous Chicago foods and touring some of Chicago's most iconic spots during the 90-second spot. "I love Chicago. I love everything the city has to offer and I can't wait to experience it."
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During the video, the two visit Navy Pier, Willis Tower, The Bean, and take in a Chicago Cubs game. After appearing to try deep dish pizza for the first time at Pizzeria Uno, Bailey quipped "this is what heaven's going to be like."
Much to Del Mar's dismay, Bailey also attempted to put ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog, a no-no for residents of the country's third most populous city.
While Bailey made the "hellhole" reference regarding Chicago several times during the previous campaign, the one that got the most attention was at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, less than three months before the election. Bailey said the comment was intended to critique Democratic leadership and crime in the city.
In a rematch, Bailey will challenge Pritzker in November, the latter seeking a third four-year term as governor.
Bailey has previously served in the Illinois Senate for the 55th District and was also a member of the Illinois House of Representatives for the 109th District in Southern Illinois.
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