DuPage Sheriff James Mendrick Announces 2026 Gubernatorial Run

DUPAGE COUNTY, Ill. (AP) — DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick formally announced Thursday his candidacy for governor of Illinois in the 2026 election. This decision follows his intention to forgo a third term as sheriff, a role he has held since 2018.

Mendrick, a Republican from Woodridge, has been vocal about what he describes as ‘radical’ changes in Illinois’ criminal justice system, particularly legislation like the SAFE-T Act that eliminated cash bail. He believes these changes have negatively impacted public safety.

In a phone interview, Mendrick stated, ‘I’ve been in law enforcement 29 years — it will be 30 when I end my term as sheriff — and I’ve seen a lot of changes, but nothing as radical as the last four years.’ He expressed frustration over the increased release of individuals charged with crimes due to changes in the law, stating that judges often feel powerless to intervene.

Mendrick emphasized that the SAFE-T Act undermines rehabilitation efforts within jails, including successful programs like gang tattoo removal. ‘It’s very frustrating to see how many people are being let go,’ he said.

During his campaign launch, Mendrick critiqued the administration of Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker, accusing him of enacting policies that compromise community safety. Mendrick remarked, ‘My family and I have decided that we want our state back. We don’t like being fearful of crime that is randomly occurring now in our streets, homes and retail stores due to soft on crime legislation.’

Mendrick acknowledged the political challenges ahead, especially financial ones, should he compete against Pritzker, a well-funded candidate. Despite this, he expressed optimism in garnering grassroots support, stating, ‘I think my message is strong enough that it will draw support.’

DuPage County Republican leaders reacted positively to Mendrick’s candidacy. Kevin Coyne, chair of the DuPage County Republicans, said, ‘Crime is a top concern for Illinois voters, and no one can speak to that better than Sheriff Mendrick.’

Jim Zay, a former chair of the DuPage GOP, noted that Mendrick’s decision to run reflects a shared frustration with current state policies among local Republicans.

Mendrick has endorsed Undersheriff Eddie Moore as his successor, assuring that Moore is well-equipped to lead the sheriff’s office. ‘He has no equal in a race for DuPage County Sheriff,’ Mendrick stated on Facebook.

As Mendrick begins his campaign, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has yet to announce his own plans for reelection in 2026. Pritzker’s office responded to Mendrick’s announcement by stating that there has been no change regarding Pritzker’s reelection intentions.

As the political landscape shifts ahead of the 2026 elections, the Illinois primary is scheduled for March 17, 2026. Mendrick officially joined the race as the first candidate to declare his intentions.