Darren Bailey
Introduction
Darren Bailey (March 17, 1966) is an American farmer and politician who is currently a Republican member of the Illinois House of Representatives for the 109th district in Southern Illinois. The 109th district, located in the Illinois Wabash Valley, includes all of Edwards, Jasper, Richland, Wabash, Wayne,and White counties and parts of Effingham and Lawrence counties.
Early life and education
Baily was born on March 17, 1966. He graduated from North Clay High School and earned an Agricultural Production A.A.S. degree from Lake Land College.
Political career
Bailey, of Xenia, Illinois, was a member of the North Clay Board of Education.
In a rare victory for candidates supported by Dan Proft's Liberty Principles PAC, Bailey defeated David Reis in the 2018 Republican primary. Bailey then defeated Democratic candidate Cynthia Given, the Secretary of the Richland County Democratic Party, by a margin of 76.14% to 23.86%.
On July 8, 2019, Bailey announced his intention to run for the Illinois Senate seat being vacated by Dale Righter.
Electoral history
| Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | Darren Bailey | 9,729 | 56.76 | |
| Republican | David B. Reis | 7,411 | 43.24 | |
| Total votes | 17,140 | 100.0 | ||
| Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | Darren Bailey | 30,048 | 76.14 | |
| Democratic | Cynthia Given | 9,417 | 23.86 | |
| Total votes | 39,465 | 100.0 | ||
Personal life
Bailey is married to Cindy Stortzum, and they have four children and 8 grandchildren. He owns a family farm.