Illinois Representative Mike Bost (@RepBost) successfully defended his seat in a closely contested GOP primary, securing his nomination for a 6th term. The race, characterized by candidates' efforts to align closely with former President Trump, saw Bost winning despite a strong challenge backed by Representative Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz). Gaetz's favored candidate, Darren Bailey (@DarrenBaileyIL), was narrowly defeated by a one-point margin. The primary was marked by high voter engagement and endorsements from significant political figures, including Trump's coveted support for Bost.
With 100 percent of the vote counted, I want to congratulate @RepBost on his one-point Primary Election victory. We all want Mike to win in November against the Democrat, who is surely worse. And a big hand to @DarrenBaileyIL who ran a spirited campaign and came incredibly… https://t.co/MillJuxy0h
I would like to first thank @BillKristol for a valiant effort in this race. He ran a good, clean campaign. Tonight, I am proud to claim victory and proud of my loyal supports for turning out the vote! Thank you and I ask for your continued support in the next round tomorrow! 🇺🇸 https://t.co/OfvtelhBqL
In a race where it seemed like the goal of each candidate was to see who could hug the former president tighter, victory went to the man who had Trump's coveted endorsement. My updated story in @stltoday on @RepBost's narrow win over Darren Bailey in #IL12:https://t.co/0rJNJACDz8
Illinois GOP Rep. Bost fends off formidable primary challenge, is nominated for 6th term https://t.co/yVeG4x7Jar
Illinois @RepBost survives challenge from @RepMattGaetz-backed challenger https://t.co/12GwlZANIb https://t.co/12GwlZANIb