Bailey Fills Sycamore Restaurant Four Days Before Election

Dozens of voters filled every seat at the Dirty Bird restaurant by noon on Friday, leaving only standing room for late arrivals. This occurred four days before the Tuesday midterm election. Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey addressed the crowd at the restaurant located at 124 S. Maple St. in Sycamore.

The event took place in the final stretch of a competitive race against incumbent Democrat JB Pritzker. Bailey arrived with Republican Lieutenant Governor candidate Aaron Del Mar and Comptroller candidate Bryan Drew. The group spoke to a mix of local business owners, members of Opportunity House on a regular outing, and other community members.

Caleb Deguzman, an 18-year-old NIU freshman from St. Charles, attended the stop. As a member of a youth advisory board for the Department of Children and Family Services, Deguzman wanted to hear the candidates' views on foster care. He noted that he had already heard from the opposing side and wanted to compare perspectives before voting on November 3.

When asked if he had selected his cabinet, Bailey said the process would begin on November 4. He stated he seeks hardworking individuals who have to work for a living rather than trust fund billionaires. Bailey said these appointees will hold real power to direct state agencies. He expressed openness to retaining some Pritzker appointees but characterized many state jobs as patronage positions that answer to the governor.

Bailey criticized the current administration, claiming someone is guiding Pritzker's decisions. He focused heavily on the Chicago Bears, arguing that the team may move to Indiana. He cited conversations with Indiana Governor Mike Braun, who told him the Bears are headed to the neighboring state. Bailey promised to do everything possible to keep the team in Illinois.

The candidates also discussed education and affordability. Bailey argued for more power for local school boards and less state government involvement. He said tax dollars should follow students if parents choose to homeschool or send their children to private schools. Deguzman said he supported the Republican stance on education and the focus on Illinois kids.

After the speech, Bailey took a selfie with DJ Farley Jackmaster Funk, a Chicago house music pioneer. Williams was driving a large truck with Bears artwork and a video screen supporting the campaign. Bailey then departed for Rockford before planning to campaign in Chicago on Saturday.