Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to announce her running mate today before they jet off on a seven-city tour. Gov. JB Pritzker — while a long shot — is on the shortlist. Here’s how he’s risen to the national stage.
How Pritzker Built His Resume
While securing Illinois as a safe haven for abortion following the Roe v. Wade reversal, Pritzker has supported reproductive rights in other states. He’s boosted his progressive record by abolishing cash bail.
In terms of campaigning, Pritzker was already traveling across the country on behalf of the Biden–Harris ticket. And now he’s being backed by Illinois labor unions and business leaders, the Sun-Times and NBC Chicago reported.
Plus, as an heir to the Hyatt hotel chain, Pritzker is rich rich. The billionaire has self-financed his campaigns and is expected to chip in for this month’s Democratic National Convention.
Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. J.B. Pritzker bump elbows in Chicago in 2021. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times / Getty)
So Why is Pritzker a Long Shot?
Analysts say a VP candidate from a swing state — like Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro or Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly — could help Harris carry more electoral votes in November. And Illinois is solidly blue.
But It’s Not Veep or Bust
Even if Pritzker is passed up as Harris’ No. 2, there is still a chance he could later join her administration if she wins. That would mean two Pritzkers will have served in the U.S. Cabinet: Penny Pritzker, the governor’s sister, was secretary of commerce under former President Barack Obama.
If Pritzker left for D.C., Illinois politics would be all shook up. Who would run for governor in 2026? Where would funding come from?
Plus, President Pritzker rumors are likely to keep swirling for years to come.
For now, let’s just make it through 2024.
