Lincoln Day Dinner to Feature Joe Concha

The Sangamon County Republican Central Committee is preparing to host its annual Lincoln Day Dinner on April 30, 2026, at the Bank of Springfield Center in Springfield. The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. and will feature Joe Concha as the keynote speaker.

"We’re honored to welcome Joe Concha as our keynote speaker for this year’s Lincoln Day Dinner," said Dianne Barghouti-Hardwick, chair of the Sangamon County Republican Party. "His insight into the media landscape and national political environment will provide valuable perspective for our local community and our party."

Sangamon County Clerk Don Gray will serve as chairman of the dinner and emcee for the evening’s program.

The Lincoln Day Dinner serves as one of the party’s primary annual events, bringing together elected officials, party members, and supporters for an evening of conversation, shared ideas, and camaraderie. Organizers note that the event plays a key role in supporting party operations and Republican candidates at the local and state level.

Concha is a Fox News contributor and political commentator known for his analysis of media coverage and national politics. He has built a national following for his direct and accessible style, regularly appearing across television and digital platforms to break down political issues and media trends. In addition to his television work, he is the author of several books, including The Greatest Comeback Ever: Inside Trump’s Big Beautiful Campaign and Come On, Man!: The Truth About Joe Biden’s Terrible, Horrible, No-Good, Very Bad Presidency. 

Don Tracy, a Springfield resident and candidate for the U.S. Senate, will also speak during the event. Tracy previously served as chairman of the Illinois Republican Party and has long been involved in state and national Republican efforts.

Darren Bailey, the Republican nominee for governor in 2022 and the Republican candidate in the 2026 race, is also scheduled to speak. Bailey previously served in the Illinois Senate and House.

The evening will include a formal dinner program beginning at 6:00 p.m., with a meet and greet opportunity with the keynote speaker scheduled prior to the program. A VIP reception will also be available for attendees who purchase that option. Organizers also plan to feature a selection of silent auction items and a 50/50 raffle as part of the evening’s activities.

Barghouti-Hardwick said the event remains the party’s largest annual fundraiser and an opportunity to bring supporters together. "Funds raised through the Lincoln Day Dinner provide important resources that allow us to support candidates and advance our efforts throughout the county," she said. "We encourage anyone interested to join us for an evening with fellow Republicans."

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 Lincoln Day Dinner are available through the Sangamon County Republican Party’s website at www.sangamonrepublicans.com.