Pritzker set to announce 2026 reelection campaign
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Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker at the Democratic National Convention in 2024. Photo: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker is expected to announce his 2026 reelection campaign this week as he seeks a third term as the leader of the Land of Lincoln, sources tell Axios.
Why it matters: While a reelection campaign isn't shocking, Pritzker is reportedly mulling a run for president in 2028.
Reality check: By announcing his reelection bid, Pritzker is not prohibited from running for governor in 2026 and for president in 2028.
Flashback: The governor was first elected in 2018, defeating incumbent Republican Bruce Rauner. He won reelection in 2022.
Zoom in: In his two terms as governor, Pritzker has kept Illinois as a solidly Democratic state with super majorities in both chambers of the General Assembly, plus firm control over the state Democratic Party.
- Pritzker-supported Democrats hold every statewide office.
Yes, but: With federal budget cuts and the end of COVID-era funding, the governor and the General Assembly recently raised select taxes while cutting back on services.
Zoom out: During his second term, Pritzker has used his platform to become a national voice on issues like abortion, criminal justice reform, immigration and LGBTQ+ rights, while also attacking the Trump administration.
- He also brought the 2024 Democratic National Convention to Chicago.
What they're saying: "Governor Pritzker is using his voice and position as governor as a bully pulpit to speak out for everyone's rights and to hold President Trump accountable," Democrat strategist Kitty Kurth tells Axios. "The governor is perfectly capable of doing both those things simultaneously."
The latest: Pritzker joined other Democratic governors earlier this month to testify in a heated Congressional hearing over immigration policies, which once again thrust Pritzker into the national spotlight.
The other side: No prominent Republicans have announced gubernatorial campaigns, but there's speculation that U.S. House members like Rep. Darin LaHood and Rep. Mary Miller could be interested.
What's next: Pritzker is expected to make a formal announcement at campaign events in Springfield and Chicago on Thursday.