* Isabel had this in her morning update, but I think it deserves its own post. It’s so difficult to imagine the depth of this loss…

The Darren Bailey/Aaron Del Mar campaign is issuing the following statement following the horrific death of Zach Bailey, his wife and two of his three children in a helicopter accident in Montana.

Statement from the Darren Bailey / Aaron Del Mar Campaign:

“On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana.

Their other grandson, Finn, age 10, was not on the helicopter and is safe.

Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them. The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time.”

* AP…

The National Transportation Safety Board said Thursday that it was investigating a helicopter crash in eastern Montana near the town of Ekalaka. The sheriff’s office in Carter County said the helicopter went down southwest of the town early Wednesday evening.

* Bailey’s running mate Aaron Del Mar talks about what happened…

* ILGOP…

Following the heartbreaking news of the death of Darren and Cindy Bailey’s son Zachary, his wife Kelsey and two of their children, Vada Rose and Samuel, ILGOP Chairman Kathy Salvi released the following statement:

“The Illinois Republican Party is lifting-up the Bailey family, their friends and community in prayer as we grieve the tragic loss Zachary, Kelsey, Vada Rose and Samuel. Please join us in keeping the Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time.”

* Gov. JB Pritzker was asked about the tragedy today…

I cannot imagine losing a child, losing two grandchildren and what they must be going through. That’s all I can say. I have expressed publicly already my condolences. My wife’s condolences, we’re devastated by it.

This is not a time for politics. It’s just a time to recognize that losing a child is one of the hardest things ever.

My grandmother lost her daughter, my mother, when she was an adult. My grandmother’s still alive, and it was her only daughter. And she was devastated by it. My grandfather, on my father side, lost his son, my father, at an early age. He was devastated by it. My grandmother and grandfather, and so I just can, I know I’ve not experienced it, thank God, but I know what they must be going through.

This post will be updated as we receive other responses.

…Adding… Illinois Democratic County Chairs association…

We at IDCCA are deeply heartbroken to learn of the tragic loss suffered by Darren Bailey and his family. The loss of his son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and their two precious children, Vada Rose and Samuel, in this horrific accident is unimaginable.

In moments like these, political differences fade. What matters most is our shared humanity and compassion. Regardless of where we stand politically, we can all come together to support the Bailey family as they navigate this profound grief.

All of our thoughts and prayers are with Darren, his wife Cindy, and their entire family. May they find comfort in their faith, their memories, and in the love and support of all who are holding them in their hearts during this unimaginable time.

* US Rep. Mary Miller…

Chris and I extend our deepest condolences to the Bailey family. We pray that their faith and the promises in God’s Word will comfort and sustain them. Please join us in keeping their family in your prayers.

* Chicago Teachers Union…

Our deepest sympathies go out to Darren and Cindy Bailey on the devastating loss of their son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and grandchildren Vada Rose and Samuel. No words can ease the pain of such an unimaginable tragedy, and we hold the Bailey family in our hearts during their time of grief.

* IL House GOP…

Our prayers are with the Bailey Family this morning following the news of the death of our former House colleague’s son, daughter-in-law and two young grandchildren in a tragic helicopter accident in Montana.

* IL Federation of Teachers…

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Darren and Cindy Bailey on the heartbreaking loss of their son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and grandchildren Vada Rose and Samuel. Our thoughts are with the Bailey family as they navigate this unimaginable grief.

* US Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi…

I am heartbroken to learn of the tragic loss suffered by Darren and Cindy Bailey and their family. My deepest condolences and prayers are with them as they mourn the passing of their son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.

* House Speaker Chris Welch…

On behalf of myself and the Illinois House of Representatives, we are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Darren Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law and their two young children. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with those who knew him best. Tragedy is non-partisan and his loss has a ripple effect that could happen to anyone. May strength and comfort surround you all during this time of sorrow.

* US Rep. Darin LaHood…

I am heartbroken to learn of the tragic passing of Senator Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law, and two young grandchildren.

Kristen and I are keeping Darren, Cindy, and the entire Bailey family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

* Ted Dabrowski…

Last night, our team was informed that Darren and Cindy Bailey lost their son, daughter-in-law, and two precious grandchildren in a helicopter accident in Montana.

“On behalf of my entire team, I want to share how incredibly heartbroken I am to learn of the death of Darren and Cindy’s son Zachary, daughter-in-law Kelsey, and grandchildren Vada Rose and Samuel”, says Ted Dabrowski. “This tragedy is unimaginable. Our entire team extends their condolences and any help to the Bailey family that may be of comfort at this terrible time.”

“We want Darren and Cindy to know we grieve with them. We know their deep faith and strong family will support them at this time. We offer our prayers to their extended family and the friends of Zachary, Kelsey, Vada Rose, and Samuel. May their memories be a blessing.”

* US Rep. Robin Kelly…

My condolences to Darren and Cindy Bailey on the heartbreaking loss of their son Zachary, his wife Kelsey, and their children Vada Rose and Samuel. My heart aches for their grandson Finn, who lost his parents and siblings.

* Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton…

My heart goes out to Darren and Cindy Bailey and their family in this immense loss. Wishing you comfort and strength in the days ahead.

* Don Tracy…

Wanda and I were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Darren and Cindy Bailey’s son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren. We cannot imagine the pain they are feeling and are praying for comfort and strength for them as they endure the days ahead.