Possible Pritzker presidential run panned by Chicago residents
Chicago residents spoke out Tuesday after reports surfaced indicating that Democratic Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is seriously considering a potential presidential run. The Wall Street Journal revealed earlier this week that the billionaire heir to the Hyatt hotel empire is contemplating a bid for the Democratic nomination in the next presidential election, drawing on sources from former Barack Obama advisors to local leaders.
Residents of the city agreed that it seemed likely Illinois’ 43rd governor would throw his hat into the ring for the Oval Office. However, the 60-year-old governor’s reputation among some constituents suggests that he may face backlash from residents that could spill over into the national conversation.
Issues such as crime, homelessness, and a myriad of other challenges have plagued Chicago and its surrounding areas, leading residents to raise concerns about Pritzker’s sanctuary policies and the influx of migrants during the Biden administration. “A sanctuary city governor who provides more support to migrants than poor Illinois residents in need,” said Cata Truss, founder of the Chicago Community Roundtable and resident of Chicago. “Do we really want him representing this country?”
Chicago, as a sanctuary city, became a landing point when Texas Gov. Greg Abbott transported thousands of illegal migrants to the city of Illinois after a surge at the southern border, with the cost of housing noncitizens falling on local taxpayers. An audit by GOP lawmakers in the state in February revealed that Illinois taxpayers have spent a staggering $1.6 billion to fund healthcare programs for illegal migrants since 2020.
In addition to immigration policy, residents also expressed concerns about other aspects of Pritzker’s tenure. “His policies put women and children at risk,” said Chicago resident Patricia “P Rae” Easley. “He passed a law allowing little girls to get abortions without their parents’ consent, giving abusers more power and making Illinois the abortion capital of the world.”
Furthermore, Illinois residents highlighted the state’s high tax rates and population exodus as additional areas of concern. “Illinois has the highest taxes in America, and people are fleeing the state like a sinking ship,” Easley added.
There was also apprehension among residents that a potential presidential run by Pritzker could divert attention away from the pressing issues facing Illinois. Chicago pastor Corey Brooks expressed his concern, stating, “We have so many issues that need to be focused on, so many problems that need to be addressed. The last thing we need is a governor who’s running for president.”
In terms of Pritzker’s chances at the White House, Brooks believed there was “no chance to win.” A Pritzker candidacy would not only influence the Democrats’ search for a presidential candidate but could also open the door for Republicans to gain momentum at the state level. With longtime U.S. Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin announcing his retirement, an open governorship could further shake up the political landscape.
Richard Porter, a former Illinois RNC Committee member and Chicago resident, noted that this era could present an opportunity for Republicans to make significant gains. “The entire statewide slate on the Democratic side will be up for grabs, and that creates opportunities for Republicans to break through by riding the growing wave of disgust over failed Democrat policies in Chicago and the state,” Porter said. “Durbin is the first domino to fall. More to come – and we will be ready for the break.”
Fox News Digital reached out to Pritzker’s office for comment but did not receive a response. The potential for a Pritzker presidential run has sparked a range of reactions among Chicago residents, highlighting the deep-seated concerns and divisions within the community.
