Metro East Sun

Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL) emerged victorious in the Republican primary for Illinois' southern district, overcoming a tough challenge from former state Senator Darren Bailey.

In a statement provided to SE IL News, Bost expressed his gratitude to Southern Illinois conservatives for entrusting him to represent them in Congress for another term.

“I’m honored that Southern Illinois conservatives have entrusted me to be their voice in Congress for another two years,” Bost said in the statement.

“Serving the people and land I love is the honor of a lifetime. Tuesday's victory was only possible because of the backing of countless friends and supporters from every corner of the district, along with a vitally important endorsement from Donald J. Trump, our next president of the United States.”

“While primaries are never easy, I’m proud that we remained focused on the issues voters care about and ran a positive, results-oriented campaign. I’m hopeful we can work to reunify our party in advance of a critical general election.”

On Election Day, Bost secured a narrow victory over Bailey, leading with 51.4% of the vote compared to Bailey's 48.6%.

Despite facing a competitive primary, Bost maintained a focus on the issues important to voters and ran a positive, results-oriented campaign, aiming to reunify the party ahead of the critical general election.

Bost prepares to face Democratic opponent Brian Roberts in the upcoming general election, leveraging his experience and seniority to continue serving  his constituents effectively.

Darren Bailey didn’t acknowledge Bost in his concession message.

“We aimed for higher turnout, yet fell short. Though the results weren’t as we wished, my gratitude for the chance to represent you is boundless,” Bailey said on Facebook.

Bost, hailing from Murphysboro, boasts a lifelong residency in the area and holds the position of Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, advocating for veterans' rights.

Prior to his congressional tenure, Bost served as an Illinois state representative for two decades, highlighting his extensive experience in public service.

He identifies as a "constitutional conservative" and heavily relied on both his background and the endorsement of former President Donald Trump during his campaign.