Former gubernatorial candidate and staunch conservative Darren Bailey launched a repeat campaign Thursday and once again chose a suburban running mate.

The downstate Republican farmer and former state senator’s pick for lieutenant governor — Cook County Republican Party Chairman Aaron Del Mar of Palatine — makes for a marked contrast.

“We’re putting our differences and egos aside for the greater good of Illinois,” Del Mar said.

In announcing their campaign at the Drake Hotel in Oak Brook, the ticket focused on the economy, crime, education and Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker , who defeated Bailey handily in 2022.

Bailey described himself as “a conservative who will never back down,” and said he and wife, Cindy, “prayed long and hard about this decision.”

“We believe this, that the tim

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