A small county judge ruled against Gov. JB Pritzker’s executive authority Monday, throwing the future of the stay-at-home orders into doubt even as the state reported another 50 deaths from COVID-19 and nearly 2,000 additional infections.

Pritzker vowed to immediately appeal the ruling out of Clay County, calling it an insult to all who have been lost to the disease and a “danger to millions.” State Rep. Darren Bailey, a Republican from just south of Effingham, filed the lawsuit challenging the governor’s authority.

Based on media reports, however, it appears that Bailey only sought relief for himself and the temporary restraining order blocking the governor’s orders might only apply to Bailey.

Pritzker lashed out at Bailey’s lawsuit, saying it could result in increased infections and deaths.

“That is the danger Darren Bailey has put this state in,” Pritzker said.

News of the ruling came near the end of Pritzker’s daily press briefing in which he had pointed out that there are downstate counties experiencing some of the highest per capita rates of infection and death.

"Cook and the collars constitute the largest segment of COVID-19 cases, but it would be a disservice to downstate residents if we governed only according to raw numbers," Pritzker said. "No matter where you live in the state, I want you to be healthy and safe."

IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike reported 1,980 new cases, bringing the total number of cases to 45,883 and 50 additional deaths, bringing the total death toll to 1,983. The state conducted nearly 13,000 tests over the past 24 hours, she said.