Darren Bailey's Fundraiser During Legislative Session Raises Legal Questions
Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey held a fundraiser on May 22 in Joliet, Illinois, which may have violated a state law prohibiting campaign fundraising on days when the legislature is in session. The event, held at a Veterans of Foreign Wars hall, was advertised with a $100 minimum contribution and offered VIP status for a $500 contribution. This revelation follows a similar incident where a Republican group in Barrington Township canceled a fundraiser due to concerns about compliance with the same law. Bailey's campaign acknowledged the event but argued that the law is intended to prevent improper influence on legislation, noting that Bailey is not currently an elected official. The Illinois State Board of Elections does not enforce this provision, and the law remains largely untested. 
