Illinois Governor JB Pritzker recently shared some noteworthy news regarding his gambling winnings. During a vacation trip to Las Vegas last year with his wife and friends, the governor won an impressive $1.4 million playing cards. At a press conference held on Thursday, Pritzker expressed his astonishment, stating, “I was incredibly lucky.” This revelation came shortly after his gubernatorial campaign released his federal income tax returns, which outlined his gambling earnings.
Pritzker, a billionaire and potential contender for the 2028 presidential election, emphasized the unpredictability of casino games, saying, “You have to be, to end up ahead, frankly, going to a casino anywhere.” While he did not disclose the specific card game that led to his winnings, a campaign representative confirmed that the money was earned playing blackjack. Furthermore, Pritzker indicated his intentions to donate the winnings.
In addition to his gambling success, Pritzker and his wife reported a combined income of nearly $10.7 million for the year 2024, according to the federal and state tax returns released by his campaign. This significant income figure showcases his financial prowess as a prominent figure in Illinois politics. His philanthropic plans for the gambling windfall only add to his profile as a committed public servant.