DUPAGE COUNTY, Ill. (WGN) — DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick on Thursday announced his Republican campaign for the governorship of Illinois, declaring he would not seek re-election for his sheriff position as he prepares to challenge Democratic Governor J.B. Pritzker.
Making his announcement via Facebook, Mendrick expressed his discontent with the state’s current laws, particularly targeting the SAFE-T Act and sanctuary protections, which he argues contribute to rising crime and financial strains on the state budget. "Our governor has chosen to ignore the federal laws... These laws have caused...a massive budget overage," he said during his candidacy announcement.
With over 30 years of law enforcement experience, Mendrick lamented the feelings of fear and insecurity prevalent among Illinois residents, particularly those living in high-crime areas. "My family and I have decided we want our state back. We don’t like being fearful of crime...due to soft on crime legislation," he stated. This commentary highlights his intention to restore safety and security across the state, especially for families living under fear of random crimes.
Mendrick endorsed Undersheriff Eddie Moore as his successor, ensuring continuity and support within the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. He emphasized he felt secure leaving the position with Moore, asserting, "Undersheriff Moore has been with me from the beginning and has helped me create what the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office is today." Mendrick has served as sheriff since 2018 and has implemented several reforms focusing on workforce training for inmates, poverty alleviation, and substance abuse rehabilitation.
The sheriff's transition to statewide politics follows his controversial stance against the assault weapon ban enacted by Pritzker, raising public eyebrows. Mendrick’s decision to run for governor positions him against the backdrop of significant challenges; he will need considerable Republican backing to dismantle Pritzker’s substantial campaign funds—$323 million spent on past campaigns, as reported by WAND. "The backing I'm already getting is more than I expected... but I just watched a presidential candidate (Kamala Harris) spend $2 billion and get nowhere with it," Mendrick commented on the financial dynamics of campaigning.
Critics might question Mendrick's capacity to confront these financial challenges, especially as Pritzker has not yet announced his own plans for re-election. The primary election is set for March 17, 2026, giving Mendrick time to solidify his platform and gather support.
One aspect of Mendrick’s campaign focuses on the current state budget, which has recently been critiqued for being mismanaged. He stated, "I have 504 personnel... That experience has taught me how to tear everything, make sure it adds up and you don't go over," alluding to his operational knowledge gained from managing the DuPage County Sheriff's Office's $80 million budget.
While details of his policy proposals remain vague beyond public safety and budgetary actions, Mendrick's criticisms remain sharply focused on the incumbent administration's perceived failures. His emphasis on public safety aligns with many Republicans whose support he will need to gain traction.
Political analysts suggest Mendrick's candidacy could invigorate the Illinois Republican Party, which has struggled recently against Pritzker’s dominance. Still, as no other Republican candidates have made their intentions known, Mendrick's bid may be poised for both opportunity and hurdles.
Governor Pritzker, regarded as one of the wealthiest politicians, has gained national attention and has been eyed as a potential candidate for higher office, such as the presidency. His role as key opposition to former President Donald Trump has solidified his standing within the Democratic Party, which complicates Mendrick's attempts to mobilize grassroots support.
With the political climate unstable and potential pushes for other candidates from both parties forming, Mendrick's gubernatorial candidacy will be one to watch as the election date approaches. He plans to address the issues Americans care about, namely safety, criminal justice reforms, and fiscal responsibility.
At the moment, the Pritzker administration has not publicly responded to Mendrick’s announcement or his comments on the state laws affecting citizen safety. The outcome of this race could hinge on voter perception of the current political atmosphere and the viability of Mendrick's proposed policies as he unveils more details moving forward.