Jim Durkin endorses Governor JB Pritzker over GOP nominee Darren Bailey

Former Illinois House Republican Leader Jim Durkin has endorsed Democratic Governor JB Pritzker for reelection, breaking party lines to support the incumbent over GOP nominee Darren Bailey.

In a campaign video, Durkin stated that he cannot cast his vote for his own party’s nominee, claiming Bailey is “not cut out for the job” and that his politics favor “exclusion over inclusion.” Durkin, who led the House GOP minority caucus until 2023, criticized Bailey’s leadership capabilities and stated that Bailey’s approach does not represent the Republican Party Durkin knows.

Illinois GOP Chairman Bob Grogan issued a statement condemning the endorsement, characterizing Pritzker’s tenure as a “complete and total failure” regarding taxes, immigration, and state budgeting. Grogan labeled Durkin an “opportunist in search of relevance.”

In response, Bailey criticized Durkin and Pritzker, suggesting Durkin’s move was an attempt to secure a future cabinet appointment. Bailey also characterized Durkin as a failed leader who contributed to the current state of the Republican Party.