King of Illinois: Pritzker swings Senate race as he targets Trump
Governor JB Pritzker: Illinois’ Democratic Kingmaker
In a decisive display of political might, Governor JB Pritzker ascended to the role of kingmaker in Illinois’ Democratic landscape, following a resounding primary victory for his endorsed Senate candidate, Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. Pritzker’s strategic deployment of substantial financial resources and political influence has fortified his standing within the Democratic Party, setting the stage for his third gubernatorial campaign and a potential presidential bid in 2028.
Retiring Rep. Jan Schakowsky praised Pritzker’s impact, declaring, “It’s going to reflect well on him,” while Illinois House Majority Leader Robyn Gabel noted, “I think it will show that he has coattails, and that he has a big following, and that people respect his opinions on who to vote for.”
Pritzker vs. Trump: A Political Rivalry
On a national level, Pritzker has been a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, frequently opposing his policies, particularly on immigration enforcement. This antagonistic dynamic was evident during Pritzker’s victory celebration in downtown Chicago, where he lambasted Trump’s presidency as a “disaster” for working families, citing rising oil prices, tariffs, and renewed conflicts abroad.
“For working families, the Trump presidency has been an unmitigated disaster,” Pritzker asserted to an enthusiastic crowd, bolstered by an open bar. Meanwhile, his opponent, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, charged for drinks, highlighting the financial backing disparities in the race.
Intraparty Tensions
The Illinois Senate primary was marred by racial dynamics, intraparty rivalries, and significant financial expenditures. Krishnamoorthi’s loss, despite a $30 million campaign fund, underscored Pritzker’s financial muscle and institutional support. The race reignited tensions from a 2022 power struggle over the Illinois Democratic Party’s control, notably between Pritzker and Rep. Robin Kelly.
Rep. Yvette Clarke of the Congressional Black Caucus criticized Pritzker’s involvement, accusing him of skewing the race, a sentiment echoed by Kelly herself. “He’s put his thumb on the race. Seventy-three percent of her donations came from one family,” Kelly remarked, referring to Pritzker’s financial backing of Stratton.
Political Capital in Action
Illinois state Rep. Kam Buckner defended Pritzker’s strategic involvement, likening political capital to financial capital, saying, “It does not grow because you admire it. It grows because you deploy it.”
As Gov. Pritzker consolidates his influence in Illinois, questions about his potential national aspirations linger. While the Illinois Senate primary has showcased his prowess in local politics, it remains to be seen how his role as a Democratic kingmaker will influence the broader national political landscape.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/03/18/pritzker-kingmaker-illinois-senate-stratton-00833545