Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker to Headline Major Fundraiser in New Hampshire, Igniting 2028 Buzz

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has been announced as the keynote speaker for the New Hampshire Democrats' McIntyre-Shaheen 100 Club Dinner on April 27 in Manchester, an event that’s set to draw considerable attention. This annual dinner is New Hampshire Democrats' largest fundraiser—and it just got a lot more interesting.

Pritzker, a two-term Democratic governor from Illinois, is no stranger to the spotlight. A billionaire who hails from the family behind the Hyatt hotel empire, he’s made waves with his venture capital initiatives and progressive agenda. But his latest move has tongues wagging about a potential 2028 bid for the White House. After all, a trip to New Hampshire, the state that traditionally holds the first primary in the presidential race, isn’t exactly a subtle gesture in political circles.

Known for his vocal opposition to former President Donald Trump, Pritzker has positioned himself as a key figure in his party. He even co-founded Governors Safeguarding Democracy last year alongside Colorado Governor Jared Polis, a group aimed at countering Trump-era policies. Let’s just say, Pritzker isn’t shy about mixing it up in the political arena.

New Hampshire Democratic Party chair Ray Buckley couldn’t stop singing his praises, describing Pritzker as a leader who delivers results and exemplifies why Democrats should govern across the country. The party’s release emphasized Pritzker’s reputation for strong leadership during challenging times—qualities they argue are much-needed in today’s political climate.

Interestingly, Pritzker is no stranger to New Hampshire. He’s headlined events there before, including the state Democratic convention in 2022, and returned last year to campaign for Vice President Kamala Harris in her 2024 presidential bid. His frequent trips to the Granite State might not be a coincidence.

While Pritzker hasn’t yet declared whether he’ll run for a third term as Illinois governor in 2026, his recent actions have added fuel to the speculation fire about his ambitions beyond the Prairie State. And with his successful push to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, he’s already proven he knows how to play the long game.

For now, all eyes are on April 27, where Pritzker’s appearance in Manchester may offer more clues about his political future. Is this a prelude to a 2028 presidential campaign? If nothing else, he’s certainly keeping us guessing.