Pritzker, Bailey Set to Debate for Second and Final Time
Governor JB Pritzker and Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia) prepare for their first debate in Normal earlier this month.
When the lights go up on the second and final television debate between Governor JB Pritzker and Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia), nearly every insider is expecting a more aggressive, attacking approach from the incumbent.
“[Pritzker] got pushed around last time,” said one GOP operative. “I would expect him to come out swinging and paint Bailey as a complete extremist.”
The sentiment appears to be bipartisan.
“The Governor is going to show exactly how out of touch Darren Bailey is,” said a Democratic insider. “It’s going to be a bad night for Bailey.”
Pritzker hasn’t held a public event in more than a week, and hasn’t appeared publicly since last Wednesday. We’re told he’s been involved in extensive debate prep, though his campaign wouldn’t confirm anything. Bailey has continued to campaign, holding events over the weekend in the suburbs and in southern Illinois. His team wouldn’t say what kind of debate prep he’s been taking part in.
After both men dodged multiple questions in their first debate earlier this month, it is likely debate moderators Micah Materre and Tahman Bradley of WGN will press them for specifics.
Bailey generally outperformed expectations in the first debate, and it appeared as if his spokesman was lowering expectations when we heard from him last night.
“I predict Pritzker comes out very strong,” spokesman Joe DeBose said. “He has been avoiding public appearances, huddling with advisors, and preparing for over a week. We will remain focused on making Illinois safer and more affordable for everyone.”
Pritzker’s side appears confident.
“Expect to see two very stark visions for the state of Illinois,” said a campaign spokesperson. “Bailey has yet to articulate a single plan, position, or idea for the state and voters will undoubtedly see that on every issue of significance. He’s all hat and no cattle.”