Prairie State Wire

Ted Dabrowski, a Republican candidate for Illinois governor, announced his victory in the Lincoln Day Dinner straw poll as evidence of strong suburban support. He outlined his plans on taxes, pensions, literacy, and competitiveness during the Northwest Suburban GOP Lincoln Day Dinner.

"I'm humbled by the support shown to me tonight with my clear victory in the straw poll," said Dabrowski, Republican Candidate for Governor. "It's clear suburban Republicans understand that I'm the best candidate to defeat Gov. Pritzker. Illinois should be a top-5 state for jobs, good wages, education and economic growth."

The event took place on October 20, 2025, at Cotillion Banquets in Palatine. The 18th Annual Northwest Suburban Republican Lincoln Day Dinner is a significant event for the GOP in Cook County, attracting township organizations and activists from across the northwest suburbs. This year's headliner was former U.S. Representative Mike Rogers, who was then a candidate for the U.S. Senate from Michigan. The dinner is organized with local Republican township groups' participation and is considered one of Illinois' most attended annual GOP gatherings.

According to a report from McHenry County Blog on October 20, 2025, straw poll results at the Palatine dinner showed Dabrowski leading with 54% against Darren Bailey's 33%, with other candidates trailing significantly. Although unscientific, these straw polls are seen as indicators of activist enthusiasm at local party events and can reflect organizational momentum among county and township leaders who influence primary turnout.

Dabrowski officially entered the 2026 Illinois GOP gubernatorial primary on September 12, 2025. Coverage highlighted his leadership role at Wirepoints, a conservative research outlet known for its data-driven approach to taxes, pensions, and governance issues. Reports also noted his early fundraising strength and name recognition compared to rivals like Darren Bailey. These factors position Dabrowski as an emerging contender aiming to consolidate suburban support.

As president of Wirepoints, an organization focused on analyzing state finances, pensions, taxes, and governance in Illinois, Dabrowski has emphasized fiscal reform and economic competitiveness throughout his campaign. Before joining Wirepoints, he served as vice president of policy at the Illinois Policy Institute and spent nearly two decades in banking. His public commentary often addresses budget and pension issues.