Pritzker prez watch: JB introduces former New Zealand head
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Gov. JB Pritzker, standing next to former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, gets a standing ovation Sunday night at the Davis Theater. Photo: Courtesy of Victoria Sanders
After a rousing speech in New Hampshire and recent friendly chats on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and "The View" — plus a snazzy new haircut — Gov. JB Pritzker is having a harder time deflecting questions about a presidential run.
Why it matters: This momentum has birthed Axios' "Pritzker prez watch" where we pop in with fresh clues that the governor is eyeing 2028.
Driving the news: Sunday night at the Davis Theater, Pritzker delivered an impassioned New Hampshire-like oration before introducing former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern at a screening of a new documentary about her called "Prime Minister."
- Sure, the governor's cousin Gigi Pritzker produced the film, but its theme of transformative progressive leadership in the face of Trump-like opposition presented some not-so-subtle parallels.
What they're saying: "Today we're seeing autocrats exploit those who struggle to make ends meet. They think that showing strength means punching down on the most vulnerable," Pritzker said.
- "Prime Minister Ardern, in this documentary and throughout her [term], showed us that strong and effective leadership is founded upon empathy and kindness, especially in times of crisis."
What's next: Ardern reminded folks she'll be back to talk about her historic prime ministership through gun control debates, giving birth and navigating COVID on June 8 in Evanston.
- We'll be keeping an eye out for Pritzker there, too.