Pritzker to Seek Re-Election in Thursday Announcement
Gov. JB Pritzker speaks following the 2022 primary election. (Photo: Chicago Tribune)
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Multiple Democratic sources tell The Illinoize Governor JB Pritzker will announce his campaign for a third term this Thursday.
Pritzker’s campaign did not respond to a message Monday night, but numerous Democrats received an e-mail inviting them to what appears to be an announcement event Thursday morning.
It is expected Pritzker will announce his effort to win a third term in office. He would be the first Democrat in state history to win a third term and the first since Republican Jim Thompson in 1986. (Thompson served a total of 14 years as Governor after winning a two year term in 1978.)
Pritzker, 60, is seen as a heavy favorite to win re-election. The billionaire has spent more than $300 million of his own money on his political efforts since 2017, including defeating incumbent Republican Bruce Rauner in 2018 and conservative Sen. Darren Bailey in 2022.
Only Republican DuPage County Sheriff Jim Mendrick has announced his effort to challenge Pritzker next year. Rep. Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva), Ted Dabrowski, the president of media organization Wirepoints is also said to be exploring a run, as are Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City) and Cook County GOP Chairman Aaron Del Mar.
But it may not be an easy ride for Pritzker.
“Voters see Democrats are raising taxes and increasing spending while we all feel the pain,” said one GOP consultant Monday night. “They’re going to blame JB Pritzker for that and it opens up a lane for a strong Republican candidate.”
But many Democrats we’ve spoken to are supremely confident.
“Show me one Republican in this state that can beat Governor Pritzker,” said one Democratic consultant. “I don’t think the ghost of Reagan could win in Illinois right now. That’s how damaged their brand is.”
Pritzker will also need a new running mate. Current Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton is seeking the state’s open U.S. Senate seat, though Pritzker is not expected to introduce a new running mate this week.
Of course, Pritzker’s clear interest in running for President in 2028 will tower over his 2026 plans, and Pritzker will have to constantly answer questions about the White House while he seeks re-election.
