Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is at the center of attention as the Democratic National Convention takes place in Chicago. Pritzker, now in his second term, will have a chance to address the convention and promote his state throughout the week.
He played a key role in bringing the convention to Chicago and is keenly aware of the stakes involved for both his state’s reputation and his own political future, especially in light of potential protests and the event’s impact on Vice President Kamala Harris.
Political science expert Kent Redfield notes, “It’s Pritzker’s convention,” emphasizing that this event presents an opportunity for Pritzker to gain national recognition and showcase his capabilities.
At 59, Pritzker is a billionaire, having inherited wealth from the Hyatt hotel empire founded by his family. He first attempted to enter public office in 1997 but did not succeed until he funded his own campaign for governor and won in 2018. He has since supported various Democratic causes, including establishing a political action committee focused on abortion rights.
Under Pritzker’s leadership and with a Democratic-controlled legislature, Illinois has enacted laws to expand access to abortion, a focal point for the upcoming presidential race. He has also advocated for a child tax credit, healthcare for undocumented immigrants, and expanded public preschool programs.
Pritzker is recognized for addressing a financial crisis in Illinois, improving the state’s credit rating, and paying down substantial state debt. While he has taken steps to enhance public pension funds, they remain significantly underfunded. He has also increased state revenues through the legalization of recreational marijuana and sports betting.
However, Republicans hold Pritzker accountable for ongoing issues in Illinois, such as gun violence in Chicago, a declining population, and high property taxes.
His re-election in 2022 escalated his national profile, as he criticized Donald Trump during his victory speech, claiming that those who do not defend the United States from Trump do not love the country.
Pritzker, a fundraiser for President Biden, was instrumental in securing the convention for Chicago and promptly endorsed Vice President Harris when Joe Biden withdrew from the race. Recently, he has intensified his critiques of Trump, referring to him in unflattering terms.
Illinois lacks term limits for governors, and Pritzker has yet to disclose his plans regarding a potential re-election campaign in 2026.