Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker officially kicked off his bid for a third term in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race, aiming to continue his leadership in one of the nation’s most populous states. A billionaire and outspoken critic of former President Trump, Pritzker used the announcement to highlight his record on fiscal management, abortion access, minimum wage increases, and tax cuts.
He unveiled his campaign via a video shared on X and followed up with a statewide tour, including stops in Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria. Pritzker promised to “protect our progress” and called state governance a model of stability compared to “chaos in Washington.”
If re-elected, he would be the first Illinois governor in over 40 years to win a third consecutive term. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton will not return as his running mate, instead pursuing a U.S. Senate seat.
The move underscores speculation that Pritzker is cultivating a national profile—possibly eyeing a 2028 presidential run—even as he focuses on local challenges and continuing his tenure as governor.