Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker Announces Third Term Bid Amid Trump Criticism

Democratic Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is set to announce his bid for a third term on Thursday, aiming to continue his leadership of the deep-blue Midwestern state. The billionaire governor, whose family owns the Hyatt hotel chain, will make his re-election announcement in Chicago before heading to Springfield, the state capital.

Pritzker’s potential third term is notable, as Illinois hasn’t seen a governor serve three consecutive terms in over 30 years. The state, ranking as the sixth most populous in the nation, has no term limits for statewide officials, paving the way for Pritzker’s continued tenure if successful in 2026.

A fierce critic of President Donald Trump, Pritzker has positioned himself as a staunch defender of Democratic values during Trump’s second term. In a recent interview, he declared, 'We’ve got to be ready for the fight,' emphasizing his belief that the nation faces a constitutional crisis under current federal policies. His efforts to 'Trump-proof' Illinois reflect his protective stance, famously stating, 'You come for my people, you come through me.'

Beyond state politics, Pritzker’s national profile is on the rise. Having been a prominent surrogate for both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the 2024 election cycle, he’s made strategic appearances in battleground states like Nevada and New Hampshire. His recent headline appearance at a major Democratic fundraising event in New Hampshire has only fueled speculation about a potential 2028 presidential run. For now, though, his focus appears to be on securing another term as governor.