Illinois governor election: JB Pritzker, Darren Bailey make final pitch to voters

To the state races, Illinois Democrats want to build even more power across the state. Republicans are focused on the suburbs, trying to chip away at those super majorities. Local reporter Brandon Pope, do not envy him tonight. He's checking out what's in play in some races you might not have on your radar. So what are you tracking tonight? A lot. This is my Super Bowl, bro. Okay. I like that. I like that flip on it. We got the workout in. The juices are pumped. It's election day, everybody. And you know, we're not expecting a bunch of drama statewide, especially when it comes to the governor's race. Illinois is solidly blue. The Republican sources I've spoken with today do mostly expect their candidates to Over-performed. They are hoping that, win or lose, this is the starting line of a greater movement, not the finish line. Now, the governor's race may be a key indicator, but polling doesn't paint as optimistic a picture as is being projected. A Chicago News weekly poll of 569 people statewide had Pritzker with a 20-point lead over Darren Bailey. It's been a race litigated over affordability and the impact of Trump policies around tariffs and the Iran war. This morning, Darren Bailey met with voters at the train station. to shake hands and meet people as we get a live look there at the Pritzker Watch Party. While Pritzker was at Manny's Deli for the traditional meeting of candidates with voters, both making their final case for the election. If you think that your vote doesn't count, yet you're frustrated with the status quo, just please get out and vote. We've had 23 years of the same party rule and it's time for change and today we can usher in that change and we won't let anyone down. We need unity in the state of Illinois and we need a better direction than what we've got. Here in Illinois what people want is a continuation of the work to raise wages and lower costs and you know we've been doing that For a number of years, it's why Juliana is going to win because of the great work she's done. I think it's going to be why Christian Mitchell and I win because of the good work that we've done for Illinois. And win or lose, I'm having an exclusive sit-down with Governor J.B. Pritzker. Fox Chicago is the only TV station you'll see him on. Catching on the Chicago Report at 6.30. Lots of talk about whether he wins or loses, especially when it comes to his presidential hopes, potentially in 2028. A reminder for all you out there, polls close at 7 p.m. I hope you got your I Voted sticker already. If not, you still got time. Yep, and if you're in line by 7 p.m., they cannot kick you out. Stay in line. Keep your place. All right, my man, appreciate it. You got a busy night ahead of you. Let's get it.