Gov. J.B. Pritzker Announces Re-election Bid For 2nd Term

SPRINGFIELD, IL — Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Monday he is running for re-election.

Illinois' 43rd governor touted his administration's success throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in a social media post where Pritzker said he "may not have gotten every decision right" but followed the science at the time.

Up until now, Pritzker has been quiet on his intent to run after taking office in January of 2019. In May, the billionaire politician funneled about $35 million into his campaign fund which he told reporters was a "preventative measure" against possible GOP attacks.

"Big news: I'm running for re-election," Pritzker tweeted along with a video of testimonials from small business owners, nurses and others. "We've been through a lot, and I've been so proud to see Illinoisans come together during the toughest of times. I'm excited to fight for the state I love with [Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton], and there's no limit to what we can do going forward."

Watch the governor's full announcement below:

Two of Pritzker's three declared Republican rivals responded with statements.

State Sen. Darren Bailey (R-Louisville) said the Pritzker announced he would try to "buy another election" but he would outwork the governor in the campaign.

"Billionaires like Pritzker cannot relate to the struggles of working Illinoisans and families. He doesn't understand the damage his lockdowns did to small businesses, mental health, and working families across the state," Bailey said. "He doesn't understand his war on police has fueled the war on our streets and made our communities less safe. He doesn't understand how high taxes regulations, and unfunded mandates from Springfield are forcing our families, neighbors, businesses, and jobs out of the state."

Former state Sen. Paul Schimpf said Pritzker's announcement shows voters will face a stark choice about the future of the state in next year's election.

"Under the Pritzker Leadership Deficit, he has failed to stand up to corruption, failed to protect our veterans and families, and failed to help overtaxed Illinoisans," Schimpf said. "In three years, JB Pritzker has demonstrated he has neither the vision nor the leadership skills to unite our state. Simply put, Illinoisans deserve better--they deserve a leader with commonsense who will renew our state."