Pritzker floated as Biden's replacement after debate

Why it matters: Pritzker's position on unofficial shortlists underscores his standing as a rising national figure in the Democratic Party.

Driving the news: Concerns over whether Biden can do the job for another term intensified Thursday following the first presidential debate, where his "awful" performance left Democrats "in a state of shock," Axios' Andrew Solender reports.

• The speculation is swirling all while the Democratic National Convention approaches in Pritzker's home state, which he worked tirelessly to attract.

Reality check: A Biden adviser told CNN Friday that not only would the president not drop out, but he also intends to participate in a second debate this fall.

• Biden himself acknowledged his bad performance.

State of play: Pritzker's place in the Democratic Party has grown since winning a second term in 2022 and taking on a surrogate role on the Biden campaign trail.

• Pritzker has positioned himself as a pro-choice advocate, touting his record in Illinois supporting and protecting reproductive rights, while routinely sparring with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.
• He's been Biden's attack dog on the campaign trail, leveling pointed insults to Republican candidate Donald Trump.

• Pritzker recently wrestled control of the Illinois Democratic Party and has a large campaign war chest. He has funded candidates and helped keep Illinois a blue state in an increasingly red Midwest.

Between the lines: Pritzker hasn't ruled out a future presidential run, but stepped aside in 2024 in favor of Biden's reelection campaign.

• The current speculation could help his name recognition with out-of-state voters in future election cycles.

The bottom line: If Biden does decide to drop out, Pritzker would be high on the party's list to replace him.