CHICAGO (WLS) — Gov. JB Pritzker has announced he will run for re-election on Thursday.
Over the past couple of months, there has been a lot of speculation over whether the governor might run for president.
Last month, Pritzker told ABC7 he would make his decision by July in an exclusive interview with ABC7’s Craig Wall.
On Thursday, Pritzker announces his new campaign in a video titled “Keep Illinois Moving Forward.”
Pritzker stated his intention to seek re-election to maintain the progress made and address ongoing challenges. Serving as Governor is a point of pride for him, guiding the state through both difficult and happy times. He emphasized his readiness to face the upcoming battles and urged the people of Illinois to unite in keeping the state on the path of advancement.
ABC7 first reported on the announcement on Tuesday.
The video in the player above is from a previous report.
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Pritzker’s next campaign will include a new running mate. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton is stepping down to run for Senate.
Commenting on the potential implications of Pritzker running for the presidency, political analyst Laura Washington highlighted the crucial question of who would succeed him as Governor if he were to win the presidential election. She noted that Pritzker seems confident in his capabilities as a governor, building a solid foundation to launch a presidential campaign if he so chooses.
If he wins a third term, Pritzker must govern as he keeps on eye on the White House.
Former Illinois House Republican Leader, Jim Durkin, acknowledged that Pritzker’s position as governor strengthens his voice in opposing Republicans and promoting his and the Democratic Party’s agenda. Being in office allows Pritzker to advocate for his priorities more effectively and engage with a broader audience on key issues.
Pritzker has positioned himself as a leading Democratic voice against President Donald Trump.
He is the first Illinois governor since the late former Republican Gov. Jim Thompson to seek a third consecutive term.
So far, the only known Republican who announced he is challenging Pritzker is DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick.
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