Prairie State Wire

GOP gubernatorial candidate Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Xenia) is questioning Illinois law regarding the compulsory use of helmets for motorcyclists.

“May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and as a motorcyclist, safety is a big deal to me," Bailey said in a statement. "I have no issue with anyone advocating for motorcycle safety, but I draw the line at attempts to impose helmet laws in Illinois. Wearing or not wearing a helmet is a personal choice that should be left up to the individual. Period.

“We don’t need government bureaucrats looking over our shoulder controlling every aspect of our lives. I have consistently opposed helmet laws and as governor, any helmet law approved by the General Assembly will be dead on arrival when it gets to my desk. Our rights and freedoms are paramount. The top priority of elected officials is to support and defend our Constitution. It is stated in the oath of office. I take that responsibility seriously, which is why I cannot support helmet laws. It is time we had leaders in our state who put the rights of Illinois citizens first. There is nothing wrong with the state encouraging helmet use, but it is an overreach to make it a requirement. Personal liberty matters.”

Bailey lives on Bailey Family Farm near Louisville with his wife of 35 years, Cindy. They are the parents of four married children and grandparents of 11. He has been endorsed by A.B.A.T.E., a motorcycle rights and safety organization

Of the six Republicans running for governor, The Center Square noted Bailey is one of the only candidates who is competitive in the race.

Jesse Sullivan, McHenry County businessman Gary Rabine, Max Solomon and former state Sen. Paul Schimpf have all fallen significantly behind Bailey and Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin, who has been criticized in recent polls for his Democratic voting history and stance, as reported by Capitol News Illinois.

The primary election will be held on June 28.