More than 400 candidates have officially filed to compete in Illinois’ March 17 primary elections, including former Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey and his running mate Aaron Del Mar, who are seeking the GOP nomination for governor and lieutenant governor to challenge Democratic incumbent J.B. Pritzker in the 2026 general election.

Del Mar, while submitting the campaign’s petitions in Springfield on Monday, acknowledged that the Bailey family is still mourning the devastating helicopter crash last week that claimed the lives of Bailey’s son Zach, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and grandchildren Vada Rose and Samuel. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received during this difficult period, saying, “Our supporters are really with us… it’s been a very trying time for the Bailey family, for the campaign itself.”

Governor Pritzker, who was also present to file his own petitions, spoke briefly with Del Mar and later told reporters that he continues to offer condolences to the Bailey family. “When you lose family members — a son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren — it takes time to heal,” Pritzker said.

Services for the Bailey family members are planned for this weekend, while Bailey’s 10-year-old grandson Finn, who was not on the helicopter, is safe, according to the campaign.

In addition to Bailey and Del Mar, DuPage County Sheriff Jim Mendrick also filed to run for the Republican nomination, while Ted Dabrowski, a former Illinois Policy Institute member and government watchdog with Wirepoints, submitted his paperwork and criticized Pritzker’s fiscal management. Dabrowski argued that the state is “spending $16 billion more today than when Pritzker took office,” yet remains financially strained.

Governor Pritzker was the only Democrat to file for re-election as of midday Monday. When asked whether he would commit to serving all four years if re-elected, Pritzker said he would “work hard every single day” for Illinoisans, but did not directly confirm his plans for the full term.

Speculation about a potential presidential run continues to follow Pritzker, though he has not announced any intentions beyond Illinois.

Candidates for both major parties have until next Monday to file their petitions, after which they must overcome any challenges to remain on the ballot for the November 2026 general election.