JB Pritzker Hosts Phone Bank to Fight TrumpCare and Hold Bruce Rauner Accountable

Chicago, IL — Today, JB Pritzker hosted a grassroots phone bank at the campaign’s south side office to resist TrumpCare and call on Bruce Rauner to take action. JB and volunteers called Bruce Rauner and members of the Illinois Congressional delegation to encourage them to stand up for the millions of Illinoisans who could lose their health care if the bill passes. Volunteers also called Illinoisans across the state to mobilize them to reach out to Rauner and their representatives and voice opposition to TrumpCare.

“Today, I stood with passionate Illinoisans who are ready to resist TrumpCare and hold Bruce Rauner accountable,” said JB Pritzker. “This legislation could devastate millions of working families, women, and seniors and together, we are standing firm against the bill. But Bruce Rauner refuses to stand with Illinoisans. Rauner is silent as the health care of the people he is supposed to represent is under assault. The governor could be one of our strongest voices in this fight, but Rauner is failing to protect working families and stand up to Donald Trump. We will keep holding Rauner accountable until he takes action.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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MEDIUM: Bruce Rauner’s Deafening Silence on TrumpCare

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following post on Medium to highlight the devastating impact TrumpCare would have on Illinois and Bruce Rauner’s inaction:

The basic right to quality and affordable health care is under assault by Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington. It started in the U.S. House with attempts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and now, the U.S. Senate is following suit with a bill that is just as mean-spirited.

Let’s be clear: this bill cannot become law. We must come together and fight against this attempt to dismantle the progress made by the ACA.

We know the numbers. Nearly 5.5 million Illinoisans with pre-existing conditions could lose access to life saving health care. 650,000 Illinoisans on Medicaid will be automatically stripped of their coverage by 2021. Premiums are expected to skyrocket. This bill could cost the state $40 billion dollars over the next 10 years. How does Bruce Rauner plan on having Illinois pay for that? Nationally, 22 million people will lose their health insurance.

But this isn’t just about numbers. This is about people’s lives. This is about parents unable to afford health care that could save their sick children. This is about families deciding between health insurance or putting food on the table. This is about low-income women with no health care provider to turn to once this bill guts Planned Parenthood. This is the worst possible statement about who we are and what we value.

While the future of health care in Illinois is debated in Washington, our state is missing what should be our most powerful voice. Governor Bruce Rauner isn’t offering any resistance to this bill and no path forward if it passes. He hasn’t reached out to Illinois lawmakers. He hasn’t commented on what will happen to Illinoisans on Medicaid. He hasn’t done much of anything.

This is made all the more troubling by the fact that the GOP plan gives more power to governors to shape health care. Rauner needs to tell Illinoisans what essential health benefits he intends to keep covering in Illinois. Does he think emergency services, maternity care, mental health and other services people rely on are essential?

Bruce Rauner’s silence is deafening.

There is no middle ground here for Bruce Rauner. Either he stands with Illinois families and defends their right to health care or he stands with Donald Trump and his effort to tear apart the progress we’ve made. This bill is too devastating, the stakes are too high, too much is at risk for Rauner’s inaction. Bruce Rauner needs to lead, and until he does we must fight to hold him accountable.

Make your voice heard. Call Bruce Rauner. Call your representatives in Washington. Fight with everything you have to stop this bill from becoming a law. Bruce Rauner won’t use his voice. Let’s stand together and use ours.

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Pritzker Campaign Places Full-Page Newspaper Ad Exposing Trump-Rauner Agenda to Knock Out Health Care

Chicago, IL — Today, the JB for Governor campaign placed a full-page ad in The Chicago Defender highlighting Donald Trump and Bruce Rauner’s commitment to jeopardizing health care for millions of Illinoisans.

Following a delay in the TrumpCare vote, news broke that nine Republican Senators now oppose the bill. This is in addition to the three GOP governors that have already spoken out. The delayed vote gives Bruce Rauner even more time to do what’s right and act decisively to protect Illinoisans.

While it’s clear that Donald Trump and Senator McConnell remain committed to stripping 22 million Americans of their health insurance, now is Bruce Rauner’s chance to stand up and fight.

To keep the pressure on Rauner, voters will see this full-page ad with their daily news:

“Donald Trump and Republicans are trying to strip health care from 22 million people and Bruce Rauner is standing behind their morally bankrupt plan,” said Pritzker campaign communications director Galia Slayen. “With the bill’s delay, Rauner has no excuses. It is time for him to do what’s right and defend the millions of working Illinoisans whose health care is at risk. This state desperately needs a leader in Springfield and we will continue to hold Bruce Rauner accountable until he does his job and fights for Illinois families.”

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Pritzker Campaign Launches New Mailer Highlighting Bruce Rauner’s Inaction on Health Care

Chicago, IL — Today, the JB for Governor campaign launched a new statewide mailer highlighting Bruce Rauner’s abdication of responsibility when it comes to protecting Illinoisans’ health care.

While five GOP senators and three GOP governors are actively working to stop TrumpCare because of its devastating impact on their states, Bruce Rauner has stayed silent and hasn’t lifted a finger to shield Illinoisans from this assault on their wellbeing.

Devastating is a mild description of the far-reaching damage that TrumpCare would have on Illinois:

  • 5.5 million Illinoisans would lose protections for pre-existing conditions
  • Millions of Illinoisans’ heath insurance coverage would be jeopardized
  • Over 600,000 working Illinoisans would lose their Medicaid 

But instead of doing his job and standing up for the people of Illinois, Bruce Rauner is standing by and doing nothing.


“Bruce Rauner should be fighting tooth and nail against this devastating bill — like five GOP senators and three GOP governors have been — but instead, he’s doing nothing,” said JB Pritzker. “TrumpCare is a disaster for our state. Millions of Illinoisans’ coverage could be jeopardized and over 600,000 working Illinoisans could lose their Medicaid. So I ask Bruce Rauner: What are you doing to stand up for the people of Illinois?”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Senate Republicans Stripping 22 Million Americans of Their Health Care

Chicago, IL — Today, the Congressional Budget Office announced that 22 million more Americans would be uninsured by the Senate health care bill. In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Donald Trump and Senate Republicans are attempting to jam through one of the most devastating pieces of legislation in recent memory,” said JB Pritzker. “This bill will strip 22 million Americans of their health coverage and reduce Medicaid funding by over $700 billion over 10 years, and raise premiums on our most vulnerable populations.

“This cruel legislation directly impacts Illinois families, but Bruce Rauner continues to stand by in silence, failing to articulate how he will protect Illinoisan’s health care. With bipartisan leaders across the country coming forward to criticize the bill, Rauner has no excuse for continuing to stand with Donald Trump instead of Illinois families. It is time for Rauner to come forward and take action and respond to this mean-spirited bill. Illinoisans are counting on him to find the courage to do what’s right.”

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Pritzker Campaign Releases New Robo Calling On Bruce Rauner To Do His Job

Chicago, IL – Today, 726 days into Bruce Rauner’s manufactured crisis, the Pritzker campaign released new robo calls targeting state Senate districts across the state. The calls aim to expose what Bruce Rauner’s budget compromise actually is: a sham. It’s a plan written solely by Republicans behind closed doors and that’s not compromise. While lawmakers are in Springfield today, Bruce Rauner will be in Iowa, doing nothing to help end this crisis he created.

The robo calls are part of the multimedia Crisis Creatin’ Rauner campaign, holding Bruce Rauner accountable for this crisis of his own making and the families, schools, and social service agencies that continue to pay the price.

The statewide robo calls will target SD 23, SD 29, SD 30, SD 48, SD 56, SD 57, SD 25, SD 36, SD 50, SD 59.

Listen to the robo calls here.

 


“Bruce Rauner kicked off special session with a sham unity address that called on legislators to support a partisan budget written behind closed doors,” said Pritzker campaign communications director Galia Slayen. “While Bruce Rauner travels to other states and pretends to want compromise, Illinois families, schools, and social service agencies are suffering under his failed leadership. 726 days and counting without a state budget, and Bruce Rauner and Republicans are leading Illinois off of a fiscal cliff – it’s time they’re held accountable for their political games and disingenuous efforts to end the budget crisis. Bruce Rauner needs to focus on doing his job for Illinois families.”

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Morning Spin: Pritzker robocalls call Republican budget plan ‘a sham’

J.B. Pritzker’s Democratic campaign for governor has unleashed a new round of robocalls, criticizing an alternative budget package proposed by legislative Republicans and backed by GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner as “a sham.”

The robocall is serving a dual purpose. To help his party play defense, it’s being played in state Senate districts held by Democratic Sens. Tom Cullerton of Villa Park, Julie Morrison of Deerfield, Terry Link of Waukegan, Andy Manar of Bunker Hill, Bill Haine of Alton and James Clayborne of Belleville. See more here

Pritzker Campaign Launches New Digital Ads Holding Bruce Rauner Accountable on Health Care

Bruce Rauner Has No Plan for Health Care Bill Jeopardizing Coverage For Millions of Illinoisans


Chicago, IL –  Today, the JB for Governor campaign launched new digital ads holding Bruce Rauner accountable for his failure to respond to the GOP health care bill. The ad campaign will run banner ads on local online publications throughout the state.

The bill introduced by Senate Republicans will be nothing short of devastating for Illinois families. It jeopardizes health care coverage for millions of Illinoisans, automatically terminates Medicaid coverage for 650,000 low-income Illinoisans by 2021, and could cost the state $40 billion over 10 years. Premiums could skyrocket across the board, with seniors bearing the brunt of the increased costs.

Despite the devastating impact this will have on our families, Bruce Rauner has yet to produce a plan to mitigate its impacts on the people he is supposed to represent. The new digital ads aim to hold Bruce Rauner accountable for failing to protect Illinoisans from this damaging legislation.


“This health care legislation will jeopardize coverage for millions of Illinoisans, financially devastate our families, and cost people their lives. There is no excuse for Bruce Rauner failing to produce a plan,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “This is a time for courage and leadership in Springfield to guide our state through the crisis this legislation will deliver to our doorstep. Instead Bruce Rauner is telling Illinoisans they will have to go it alone as Donald Trump’s agenda devastates our state. Rauner’s silence is cowardly and his failure to act will do long term damage to Illinois families.”

Pritzker Responds to “Energized” Rauner Leading State To Junk Status

Chicago, IL — As we enter day 725 without a budget, the bill backlog tops $15 billion and the state is about to be downgraded to junk status, Bruce Rauner told the Chicago Sun-Times that he’s “energized” and is “happy” about his hard work leading our state to financial ruin. In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“The fact that Bruce Rauner can talk about his own happiness as our economy spirals down the drain and Illinois stumbles towards junk status is appalling,” said JB Pritzker. “Rauner’s comments are an absurd insult to the millions of families struggling under his failed leadership. This is confirmation of what we’ve known all along: Bruce Rauner manufactured this crisis to force his agenda on our state and he does not care how many Illinoisans pay the price.”

The State Journal-Register sums up Bruce Rauner’s devastating comments:

State Journal-Register: Bernard Schoenburg: Rauner talks of being happy, energized during impasse

By Bernard Schoenburg

In the midst of a two-year budget impasse, Gov. Bruce Rauner has again said how happy he is every morning.

Republican Rauner told Chicago Sun-Times columnist Michael Sneed that when he’s out and about, and people who identify themselves as Democrats tell him to stay the course, “it’s really wonderful.”

“That energizes me, and I know it sounds strange, but my wife tells me she hasn’t seen me this happy in 20 years,” Rauner continued. “I feel totally honored and humbled to get the opportunity to improve the future of 13 million people.”

He went on to tell a story about learning the value of persistence by taking hours to catch a bullfrog at his grandfather’s farm in Wisconsin.

…

Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of political science at the University of Illinois Springfield, said it’s hard to be “pitching compromise and bipartisanship on the one hand,” which Rauner claimed to be doing when asking for unity in the special session, “and then doing attacks ads and mail pieces” at the same time.

Being in campaign mode, Redfield said, “makes the normal give-and-take of government very difficult. … If you want it all (governmentally) and you want to get maximum partisan advantage, that really almost precludes doing what you … want to accomplish.”

…

Meanwhile, one obvious source of Democratic messages — including anti-Rauner ads — is the campaign of J.B. Pritzker of Chicago, who is worth more than $3 billion and, like Rauner, is advertising early. He’s one of several candidates in the March Democratic primary for governor.

“What’s happening in Springfield is offensive to our values and to who we are as a state, and Bruce Rauner blames everyone but himself,” Pritzker says in one ad. The budget impasse, he adds, is “creating real damage to people,” with “thousands of women and children seeking refuge from violence … finding shelters either closed or with less availability than they once had. … Home care for seniors is in jeopardy. … And with Donald Tump in the White House, now, more than ever, we need leadership in our state that’s committed to fighting for the people of Illinois.”

Read the full story HERE.

 

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Pritzker steps it up

JB Pritzker Responds To Bruce Rauner’s Silence on GOP Health Care Attack

Chicago, IL – Today, Republicans in the U.S. Senate announced their new plan to dismantle the Affordable Care Act following weeks of closed door meetings, shutting out Democrats, the media, and the American people. In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“The Senate GOP’s plan for health care will dismantle the basic right to quality and affordable health care in the United States,” said JB Pritzker. “This mean-spirited bill that Republicans leaders are attempting to jam through Congress is nothing short of an attack on low-income women and millions of families across the country. In Illinois, the impact will be particularly devastating, with hundreds of thousands potentially losing their Medicaid coverage and thousands of jobs at risk. But while Republicans in Congress prepare to unleash devastation on our state, Bruce Rauner remains silent. There is too much at stake for Bruce Rauner’s cowardice. I’m calling on Bruce Rauner to do his job and stand up and fight for the people of this state.”

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Gubernatorial Candidate JB Pritzker Dicusses Budget and Vision for Illinois

Bruce Rauner Still Silent on Health Care as Illinoisans and Republicans Speak Out

Chicago, IL – Yesterday, Illinoisans rallied in Chicago and Springfield to protest the GOP health care bill and demand Rauner take a stand. The failed governor remained silent.

Rauner’s failure to speak out stands in stark contrast to members of his own party who are putting partisan politics aside to take a principled stand:

  • Republican Governors John Kasich, Charles Baker, and Brian Sandoval all blasted the health plan in a letter to Senate leaders.
  • Republican Senator Marco Rubio warned against cooking something up behind closed doors and rushing it for a vote.
  • Even Donald Trump called the House GOP health care plan “mean,” after hosting a celebratory press conference when the bill first passed.

Bruce Rauner, on the other hand, has gone out of his way to avoid taking any stand at all on the legislation. Last night, Rauner abruptly canceled a fundraiser with the Illinois GOP to dodge appearing with attendees who support the bill.

“Illinoisans across the state are demanding Bruce Rauner take a principled stand on legislation that will directly impact their lives, but Rauner is once again a no show,” said JB Pritzker. “The facts are clear, if the GOP health care bill passes Illinoisans will lose jobs, their premiums will go up, and seniors will be completely devastated. This bill is a direct attack on the people Bruce Rauner is supposed to represent. He does not get to remain silent.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Bruce Rauner’s Sham “Unity” Address

Chicago, IL – In response to Bruce Rauner’s sham “unity” address scheduled for tomorrow evening, JB Pritzker released the following statement.

“720 days into a manufactured budget crisis of his own creating, Bruce Rauner either doesn’t have the slightest clue what unity is or just doesn’t care,” said JB Pritzker. “Unity is not introducing a ‘compromise’ budget produced in secret by Republicans and entirely lacking in any actual compromise. Unity is not Bruce Rauner planning to veto school funding reform legislation that he 90% agrees with. Unity and leadership are more than words. Bruce Rauner can’t just say the word ‘unity’ when his actions as governor have only served his own self-interest and devastated Illinois families along the way. Leadership is having the courage and ability to bring people together, compromise and negotiate, and get results. Rauner has proven time and again that he is not a leader and tomorrow’s speech will do nothing to change that.”

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J.B. Pritzker recibe respaldo de líderes hispanos

Rauner Runs Scared from Cocktail Fundraiser

Failed Governor Pulls Out of High Dollar GOP Fundraiser Following Backlash

Chicago, IL – Just hours before a GOP fundraiser, Bruce Rauner abruptly canceled his appearance. Rauner was billed as a “special guest” for the event and his attendance was announced weeks earlier.

Rauner’s team cited the special legislative session as the reason behind his withdrawal from the event, but the special legislative session was scheduled last week and conveniently doesn’t start until Wednesday.

It seems that Rauner was scared off by the backlash of a failed governor attending a high-dollar cocktail fundraiser 719 days into a budget crisis of his own making, and days before important health care votes in Congress. With the planned protest outside and the fact that Rauner refuses to take a stand on the GOP health care bill that many attendees support, it is not exactly a recipe for a great evening for Rauner.

“The Illinois GOP is getting a taste of what working families across the state have been dealing with for years. When it comes to following through on commitments, Bruce Rauner will be a no show every time,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “Bruce Rauner is in it for himself and when the going gets tough, Rauner gets going in the other direction. Throw in some cowardice, special interest politics, and failed leadership and you get a Rauner cocktail of destruction and devastation in Illinois.”

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Congressman Luis Gutierrez Endorses JB Pritzker for Governor

Chicago, IL – Today, Congressman Luis Gutierrez (IL-4) endorsed JB Pritzker for governor at Lincoln United Methodist Church in Pilsen.

“For over 30 years, Congressman Gutierrez has been a fierce advocate and fighter for our immigrant communities and the most vulnerable in Illinois. I am honored to receive his endorsement and humbled to have him standing with me in this campaign,” said JB Pritzker. “As governor, I will work with Congressman Gutierrez to pass the TRUST act, ensure DREAMers can graduate and contribute to the economy, invest in quality education for all Illinoisans, and support small businesses and access to capital in the communities that need it most. Most importantly, I will partner with Congressman Gutierrez to stand up to Donald Trump and Bruce Rauner’s fear-mongering and attacks on Illinois families. Rauner refuses to stand up to Donald Trump’s hate and has decimated funding for immigrant services in Illinois. The nearly 1.8 million immigrants in Illinois deserve a governor who will fight for them and I look forward to standing with Congressman Gutierrez to be that governor.”

“I am proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor because I know that he will bring people together and fight for what’s right in Illinois,” said Congressman Luis Gutierrez. “JB has spent his life lifting up our most vulnerable communities and fighting for Illinois families. But our current governor has failed our families and refuses to stand up to Donald Trump’s attacks. Unlike Rauner, I know that JB will be a partner and a friend to our immigrant communities in Illinois and he will never be afraid to stand up to Donald Trump. JB has the background and the values to take on Bruce Rauner and ensure that Illinois is a state that always welcomes and protects immigrants. JB will be a great governor for our state and I look forward to standing with him in the fight ahead.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

Congresista Luis Gutiérrez Endosa a JB Pritzker para Gobernador
Chicago, IL – Hoy el Congresista Luis Gutiérrez (IL-4) endosa a JB Pritzker para gobernador en la iglesia metodista Lincoln United en Pilsen.“Por más de 30 años, el Congresista Gutiérrez ha sido un fuerte defensor y ha luchado por la comunidad inmigrante y por los más vulnerables en Illinois.  Me siento honrado por recibir su endoso y humilde por su apoyo en esta campaña,” dijo JB Pritzker. “Como gobernador, voy a trabajar con el Congresista Gutierrez para pasar el proyecto de ley TRUST Act, asegurar que los DREAMers puedan graduarse y asi contribuir a la economía, invertir en educación de calidad para todos en Illinois, y apoyar las empresas pequeñas dando acceso a capital para las comunidades más necesitadas. Pero lo más importante, seré un aliado del Congresista Gutierrez para enfrentarnos a Donald Trump y Bruce Rauner en contra de los ataques que infunden temor a las familias de Illinois. Rauner se rehúsa a enfrentarse al odio de Donald Trump y ha disminuido fondos a servicios para inmigrantes en Illinois. Los más de 1.8 millones de inmigrantes en Illinois se merecen un gobernador que va a luchar por ellos y miro hacia adelante para hacerlo al lado del Congresista Gutierrez y ser ese gobernador.”

“Estoy orgulloso de endosar a JB Pritzker para gobernador porque se que él reunirá a la gente para luchar por lo que es correcto en Illinois,” dijo el Congresista Luis Gutiérrez.  “JB ha pasado su vida apoyando comunidades vulnerables y luchando para las familias de Illinois. Pero el gobernadora actual ha fallado a nuestras familias y se rehúsa enfrentarse a los ataques de Donald Trump. A diferencia de Rauner, se que JB sera un aliado y amigo para nuestra comunidad inmigrante de Illinois y nunca tendra miedo enfrentarse a Donald Trump.  JB tiene el conocimiento y los valores para encargarse de Bruce Rauner y asegurar que Illinois sea un estado que siempre le de la bienvenida y protega a los inmigrantes. JB sera un gran gobernador para nuestro estado y anticipo estar de pie con él en la lucha por delante.”

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Congressman Luis Gutierrez Endorses JB Pritzker for Illinois Governor

 

Bruce Rauner: My Way Or The Highway

Rauner Plans To Veto Bill Even Though He Supports 90% Of It

 

Chicago, IL — Bruce Rauner is showing his true colors by planning to veto an education bill that he mostly supports. After talking up the issue for years and even convening his own task force, Rauner is cowardly abandoning the bill to make a political statement.

This is the epitome of failed leadership: getting 90% of the job done and still refusing to compromise. It’s clear that Bruce Rauner will never step up to the plate and lead our state. Real leadership is negotiating and compromising for the future of our state and our children — something Bruce Rauner refuses to do.

Rauner’s strategy is clear: it’s my way or the highway.

While Illinois has the least equitable school funding system in the country, Bruce Rauner is failing to solve the problem. And, under Rauner’s failed leadership, Illinois is breaking national records for not passing a budget for 713 days. Despite this fact and the incredible pain he is inflicting across the state, Rauner continues to put himself and his special interest allies above Illinois schoolchildren.

“While Bruce Rauner can try and bankrupt our state, he cannot bankrupt our people,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “Rauner almost reached a compromise, but instead of doing what’s right, he cowardly retreated the moment he didn’t get his way. That’s not how compromise works. No one should be in government unless they truly care about our state and our families. Unlike Rauner, JB invests in people and in our communities. It’s abundantly clear that Rauner will always put politics above the people of our state.”

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Federal Court Says Illinois “Has Not Lived Up To Its Agreements” Under Rauner’s Failed Leadership 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 8, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL — Yesterday, a federal judge ruled that the state of Illinois is not in compliance with consent decrees to pay Medicaid providers and must work with providers to be in compliance by the end of the month. This decision comes as additional consent decrees and court orders are mandating spending at levels exceeding current state revenue. In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Bruce Rauner is the governor of this state and the courts should not have to do his job for him,” said JB Pritzker. “It is Bruce Rauner’s constitutional duty to propose a balanced budget, but for the past three years he has consistently refused to do so. As Rauner holds this state hostage, the backlog of bills continues to grow and the fiscal crisis deepens. Courts are left with no choice but to pick winners and losers of state resources. In reality, all Illinoisans are losing under our failed governor. This is a manufactured crisis and the people of Illinois deserve so much better. It is time for a governor with courage, who will sit at the negotiating table, bring people together, and get our state a balanced budget.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Illinois Teetering on the Edge of Junk Bond Status

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, June 8, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL — Today, analysts with S&P Global Ratings indicated that without a budget, the Illinois bond rating will likely be downgraded to junk status in July. This follows news earlier today that BlackRock, the world’s largest money manager, would no longer purchase Illinois bonds.In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Bruce Rauner is stumbling from crisis to crisis as Illinois families pay the price for his failed leadership,” said JB Pritzker. “Rauner ran for office attacking the previous governor for downgrades and promising a turnaround. But all we’ve gotten under Rauner’s failed leadership is eight downgrades so far and ratings agencies essentially promising that there will be more. These agencies are confirming what so many Illinois families already know: Bruce Rauner’s manufactured budget crisis has wrecked our state’s economy. S&P, Moody’s, and Illinoisans across the state have had enough. We need a real leader in Springfield who can pass a budget and clean up Rauner’s fiscal mess.”

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J.B. Pritzker: At times, ‘your faith has to overcome maybe logic’

In The News: Illinois AFL-CIO Endorses JB Pritzker For Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, June 6, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL — Today, the Illinois AFL-CIO endorsed JB Pritzker for governor. The Illinois AFL-CIO represents nearly 900,000 members across the state and is a powerful voice for Illinois working families.

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Illinois AFL-CIO and the working families they represent across our state,” said JB Pritzker. “As governor, the labor movement will always have a seat at the table and will be a partner in our work ahead. I will always stand up for collective bargaining rights and prevailing wage, protect retirement security and pensions, and ensure safe working conditions and pay equity for working families.

“We have our work cut out for us. Over 700 days into a historic budget crisis, Bruce Rauner continues to attack our working families instead of doing his job as governor. Our social services and public education system are on the brink of collapse, but Rauner is focused on dismantling collective bargaining rights, cutting pensions, and opposing prevailing wage. The AFL-CIO and the working families it represents deserve a real leader in Springfield who will always stand with them to get our state back on track. I look forward to being that governor for Illinois working families.”

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JB Pritzker Meets with Action for a Better Tomorrow Northbrook and Indivisible Northwestern Illinois

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sunday, June 4, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker attended an Action for a Better Tomorrow Northbrook meet and greet and an Indivisible Northwestern Illinois meeting where he discussed his progressive values and the importance of resisting Bruce Rauner and Donald Trump’s hateful agenda. JB shared his vision for the state and rallied chapter members to work together to fight against Trump and Rauner.

“Grassroots organizations like Action for a Better Tomorrow and Indivisible Northwestern Illinois are leading the resistance against Donald Trump and Bruce Rauner and I am so proud to join them in that fight,” said JB Pritzker. “Together, we will work to lift up our most vulnerable communities, invest in the education of our students, fight to raise the minimum wage for working families, and make it clear that the Rauner-Trump hate agenda has no place in Illinois. As governor, I will ensure that passionate Illinoisans, like the families and individuals I met today, have a seat at the table as we work together to get our state back on track.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Bond Rating So Low, Even Illinois Couldn’t Purchase Illinois Bonds

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 5, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Just days after Moody’s and S&P downgraded Illinois’ credit rating to a notch above junk, Comptroller Susana Mendoza says that the credit rating is so low, state rules would prevent the state from purchasing its own bonds. JB Pritzker released the following statement in response:

“Illinois now has the lowest credit rating in not only the history of our state, but the history of any state. Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership is stunning and it will take Illinois years to recover,” said JB Pritzker. “The bill backlog has more than tripled, billions in deficit spending is taking place, and borrowing gets more expensive with every downgrade. Illinois taxpayers are on the hook for Rauner’s incompetence and they can’t afford more of the same. It’s time to send a leader to Springfield who can clean up Rauner’s fiscal mess and get our state back on track.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on the Paris Climate Agreement and the Future of Illinois

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, June 2, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement condemning Donald Trump’s decision to leave the Paris Climate Agreement and urging Bruce Rauner to continue to uphold the provisions of the agreement in Illinois:

“Donald Trump’s announcement yesterday is an attack on our fundamental obligation to leave our children a better country and a better world than the one we inherited,” said JB Pritzker. “It is an affront to scientific consensus and an assault on basic reason. It is a tragedy, and the impacts of which we will feel and our children will feel for years to come. The path forward for Illinois is clear. We must stand with cities and states across the country who have come forward to say that they will continue to uphold the provisions of the Paris Climate Agreement and that’s exactly what I would do as governor.

“Bruce Rauner has proven himself unable to stand up to Donald Trump time and again, but for the safety and security of our children, I sincerely hope this time is different. Our state deserves a governor who believes in science and fights to protect our environment. I look forward to being that governor for Illinois families.”

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JB Pritzker Tours Caritas Family Solutions in Belleville

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, June 2, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Rauner’s Budget Crisis Fuels Treatment Program Cuts, Foster Care Delays, and Employee Turnover

Chicago, IL – Yesterday, JB Pritzker joined dedicated staff and leaders at Caritas Family Solutions in Belleville for a tour and roundtable discussion to highlight the direct impact of Bruce Rauner’s budget crisis on essential family services. Caritas Family Services provides a range of child welfare and family services to 4,400 families in Southern Illinois.

After over 700 days without a state budget, the high number of families needing services continues, but the capacity of social service agencies is diminishing. For Caritas Family Solutions, massive cuts to treatment services mean parents struggle to access programs that will help correct behaviors associated with abuse, trauma, drug abuse, or alcoholism. The lack of a budget is also fueling employee turnover, resulting in overworked and underpaid employees, and delays in the process for children leaving foster care and being reunited with their parents.

“Caritas Family Solutions provides essential services to our most vulnerable children and families. Their work is critical, but it is suffering at the expense of Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership,” said JB Pritzker. “Our social service agencies deserve a governor who can pass a budget and allow them to continue doing their work for Illinois families. I’m grateful to the hardworking staff at Caritas for all that they do and I am committed to working with them, and social service agencies across as the state, when I’m governor to help us get our state back on track.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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UPDATED: JB Pritzker Statement on S&P AND Moody’s Downgrading of Illinois Bond Rating

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 1, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Just a few hours after S&P Global Ratings downgraded Illinois bond status, Moody’s followed suit. S&P and Moody’s now both rate Illinois bonds just one level above junk bond status, the worst rating ever for a U.S. state. In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“A day after Bruce Rauner once again failed to produce a budget, both S&P and Moody’s have now downgraded Illinois bonds,” said JB Pritzker. “Under Rauner’s failed leadership, Illinois’ general obligation debt is now a step away from junk, the lowest ever for a U.S state. What we’re seeing is a state economy in shambles as state debt skyrockets and Bruce Rauner stumbles past 700 days without a budget. This will have long term ramifications for the economy of our state and it will take years to clean up Rauner’s mess. We need a governor who understands how to get results in Springfield and it is clear to S&P, Moody’s, and Illinoisans across the state, that Bruce Rauner will never be up to the job.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Downgrading of Illinois Bond Rating to Lowest Ever for U.S. State

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 1, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL –  Today, under Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership, S&P Global Ratings downgraded Illinois bond status to one level above junk, the lowest ever for a U.S. State. Illinois is now on negative credit watch, indicating all Illinois bonds could be downgraded to junk status as early as July. In response, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“A day after Bruce Rauner once again failed to produce a budget, the Illinois economy is already feeling the devastating impacts,” said JB Pritzker. “Under Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership, Illinois’ general obligation debt is now a step away from junk, the lowest ever for a U.S State. What we’re seeing is a state economy in shambles as state debt skyrockets and Bruce Rauner stumbles past 700 days without a budget. This will have long term ramifications for the economy of our state and it will take years to clean up Rauner’s mess. We need a governor who understands how to get results in Springfield and it is clear that Bruce Rauner will never be up to the job.”

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JB Pritzker Campaign Releases New TV Ad “What’s Happening in Springfield”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 1, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

New Ad Highlights Rauner’s Failure to Pass a Budget and JB’s Commitment to Fighting for What’s Right

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker for Governor campaign released a new TV ad, “What’s Happening in Springfield.”  The ad will air in markets across the state.

Yesterday, on the last day of regular session and on day 700 without a budget, Bruce Rauner once again came up empty, all but ensuring Illinois will go without a budget for another year. The new ad highlights the incredible damage Bruce Rauner’s crisis has unleashed on the state of Illinois and its most vulnerable communities. It makes clear that it is time for new leadership in Springfield and that JB Pritzker is the right candidate to bring people together and fight for what’s right.

“This isn’t just about politics and numbers, Bruce Rauner’s budget crisis has driven our state into the ground, decimating our economy and devastating our most vulnerable communities,” said JB Pritzker. “We’re over 700 days into this budget crisis and Bruce Rauner is well into his third year as governor. Illinoisans are tired of hearing Rauner’s excuses, as he shamelessly tries to pass blame at every turn. The buck stops with the governor and the governor has failed. Our state is ready for new leadership in Springfield, predicated on a commitment to the values that make Illinois strong. We lift up our most vulnerable communities, we stand firm against Donald Trump, and we think big and get results. I look forward to standing with Illinois families and communities to get our state back on track.”

 

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JB Pritzker Statement on Rauner’s Failure to Pass a Budget During Regular Legislative Session

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 31, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement in response to Bruce Rauner failing to pass a budget during regular legislative session:

“For 700 days, Bruce Rauner has held Illinois hostage to force his radical and deeply misguided agenda on our state,” said JB Pritzker. “With the conclusion of regular legislative session today, it is all but certain Rauner’s manufactured crisis will continue for another year. Our economy, social service agencies, schools, and families continue to suffer untold damage at Rauner’s expense, as he works to shift blame at every turn. It is abundantly clear that Illinois will need new leadership to clean up Rauner’s mess. I stand ready to work with families across this state to bring people together, pass a budget, and get Illinois back on track.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Historic House Passage of $15 Minimum Wage Bill

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, May 30, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement in response to the Illinois House passing a $15 minimum wage bill:
“I’m thrilled to see the House pass a $15 minimum wage and will continue to stand with working families across our state to see this bill signed into law,” said JB Pritzker. “The fact is, working families and our most vulnerable communities continue to get left behind and raising the minimum wage to $15 moves our state in the right direction. This bill will help ensure that Illinois workers have the resources they need to support themselves and their families. While Bruce Rauner stands with special interests to oppose a minimum wage, I will always stand with Illinois’ working families in the fight to make this a reality for our state.”

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Committeeman Moog, Alderman Smith, and Alivio Medical Center CEO Esther Corpuz Endorse JB Pritzker for Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, May 30, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

JB Joins Community Leaders and Volunteers for HB 40 Phone Bank

Chicago, IL –  Today, 43rd Ward Democratic Committeeman Lucy Moog, Alderman Michele Smith (43rd), and Alivio Medical Center CEO Esther Corpuz endorsed JB Pritzker for Governor. Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd) also joined the event to reinforce her support for JB. The four women leaders represent diverse communities throughout the city including Bronzeville, Lincoln Park, and Little Village.

The announcement took place at the Social Table, a woman-owned business in Lincoln Park, where community leaders and volunteers came together to phone bank in support of HB 40. JB joined the phone bank, urging Bruce Rauner to support this critical legislation that protects Illinois women and their right to choose.

“Today, I am proud to receive the endorsement of Committeeman Moog, Alderman Smith, and CEO Corpuz, because they know I will never break my promise to protect the rights of Illinois women,” said JB Pritkzer. “Together, we will fight for our shared priorities, from defending a woman’s right to choose, to equal pay for equal work and paid family leave. Illinois deserves a leader we can trust to fight for women’s health every day and I am ready to champion that fight. With our shared passion and energy, I know that together we can resist Bruce Rauner’s hurtful agenda and fight for the passage of HB 40. This critical legislation protects the right to choose for all Illinois women and it is time for Rauner to stand with our families instead of special interests.”

“I am proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor because we’re ready for a leader who stands with us in the fight to protect women’s health and basic rights,” said Committeeman Lucy Moog. “In Springfield, JB joined thousands of women for a historic march and spoke openly and candidly about how women’s rights and healthcare access should not be up for debate. Basic rights for women are being threatened across the country, and I trust that JB will always stand with us as the next governor of Illinois.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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The Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois Endorses JB Pritzker for Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, May 26, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois announced their endorsement of JB Pritzker for Governor at a press conference in Peoria. The endorsement comes after careful consideration of every candidate in the race and their commitment to fighting for Illinois working families.

The Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois represents 15,000 fire fighters and 221 local chapters across the state. They are Illinois’ first responders, keeping our state safe from harm.

“I am so proud to receive the endorsement of the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois and their 15,000 hard working members across our state,” said JB Pritzker. “Our fire fighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our families and our state safe, but they have been let down by their governor. Bruce Rauner has failed to pass a budget for 695 days and his special interest agenda is a direct attack against working families. Our fire fighters deserve a governor who stands with them and I will always work to protect the right to organize, fight for safe working conditions, and ensure our children have access to high quality education. It is an honor to have our state’s heroes standing with me in this campaign and I will always stand with them as governor.”

“JB Pritzker has the competence and the compassion to be the governor Illinois working families need and we are so proud to endorse his campaign,” said Pat Devaney, President of the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois. “JB is committed to lifting up Illinois working families and making sure our economy works for everyone. He has a record of creating opportunity and fighting for quality education for all Illinoisans. This is a stark contrast to the willful neglect of Bruce Rauner, who has failed to pass a budget and shows contempt for Illinois working families. Illinois needs a governor who is ready to fix Rauner’s mess and we are proud to support JB Pritzker to lead our state.”

 

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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JB for Governor Proud to Announce Support of Barbara Bowman

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 25, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Bowman Praises JB’s Work on Early Childhood Education, Says He Will Be Outstanding Leader For Illinois

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker for Governor campaign released its first radio ad, “Trust,” featuring Barbara Bowman. The new ad highlights JB’s commitment to working with educators like Bowman to ensure quality early childhood education for all Illinois children. In conjunction with the radio ad, the campaign is also releasing the next in its JB & Me video series featuring Bowman.

Barbara Bowman’s work and advocacy for early childhood education has touched the lives of thousands of children and families across Illinois. After getting her start as a nursery school teacher on Chicago’s Southside, Bowman went on to help found the Erikson Institute, serve as the Chief Early Childhood Education Officer for Chicago Public Schools, and become one of the world’s leading voices on the importance of quality educational programming for young children.“I am so honored to receive the support of Barbara Bowman and proud of all we have accomplished together,” said JB Pritzker. “Quality early childhood education isn’t optional, it is essential to providing equal opportunity to all Illinois children. I believe this is one of the most critical issues for our state and I look forward to our continued work to ensure Illinois children receive the education they deserve.”

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JB Pritzker Calls for Beginning the Impeachment Process of President Donald Trump

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 17, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL –  Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement calling for the U.S. Congress to begin impeachment proceedings against President Donald Trump.

“Today, I am calling for the U.S. House of Representatives to begin the impeachment process based on credible reports that President Donald Trump has obstructed justice in the investigation of the Russian hacking of our democracy,” said JB Pritzker.  “I understand that calling for impeachment is not something done lightly, but it is an action that I believe is necessary to protect our country’s national security and preserve our democracy.

“With the revelation, backed up by his own Tweets, that President Donald Trump may have disclosed highly classified intelligence to our Russian adversaries and compromised our allies’ ability and desire to share the most sensitive intelligence on ISIS, I feel a grave sense of urgency to get to the bottom of this threat to our democratic process and national security. We do not have months or even weeks to wait for Republicans in the House to consider a discharge petition that names a special prosecutor and independent, bipartisan commission to investigate these allegations. We do not have weeks or months to wait for the U.S. Senate to consider the House process. We do not have weeks or months to wait for that commission and that prosecutor to hire staff to begin the process of determining whether or not the president interfered with, and possibly obstructed, an FBI investigation into his former National Security Advisor.

“The House, with unique constitutional authority and resources, must act in a bipartisan fashion with all care and speed to determine what is fact and what is not before President Trump makes another careless blunder or calculated leak of highly classified information that puts our intelligence personnel, our troops serving in harm’s way, and our citizens at home and abroad at risk. We simply do not have the luxury of time to wait for months or years to determine whether the current President of the United States has committed high crimes and misdemeanors, and if so whether the U.S. Senate should try the case against President Trump.

“Congress has the constitutional authority and a responsibility to serve as a check on our executive branch and they must act now. I call on Republicans and Democrats to come together in this time of crisis. It is time for all of us to put partisan politics aside and put the safety and security of this state and our country first. We must collectively act to preserve our Democracy and restore stability and respect for the rule of law to our Country’s highest office. The House must begin the impeachment process before Donald Trump puts us at risk again.”

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JB Pritzker Calls on Republicans to Hold Donald Trump Accountable

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 17, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement calling on Republicans in Congress and the Illinois delegation to hold Donald Trump accountable:

“Since taking office just a few short months ago, Donald Trump’s administration has been plagued by staggering incompetence on his best days and a flagrant disregard for our values, ethics, and the rule of law on his worst,” said JB Pritzker. “Trump is not only an embarrassment who is putting our national security at risk, but it’s clear that he is a morally bankrupt leader who seems determined to subvert all checks on his power. Trump has now fired the Acting Attorney General, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of NY, and the FBI Director. This purge of officials most directly responsible for oversight of the executive branch makes it even more critical for Republicans in Congress to take decisive action and finally hold Donald Trump accountable.

“Republicans must end their silence and demand an independent non-partisan investigation into President Trump. The American people deserve information on Trump’s ties to Russia. We need an explanation as to why Trump shared classified information with the Russian Ambassador and foreign minister. And we certainly deserve clarity as to whether Trump interfered with an FBI investigation into Michael Flynn. The fact is, Donald Trump has continuously lied to the American people and Congress must act to get us the answers we deserve.”

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JB Pritzker Campaign Releases New TV Ad “Incubate”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, May 15, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Ad Highlights JB’s Record of Bringing People Together to Grow Jobs in Illinois

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker for Governor campaign released its second TV ad, “Incubate.”

“Incubate” highlights JB’s visionary work to grow Illinois into one of the top technology hubs in the world. Five years ago, JB brought tech leaders and entrepreneurs together to found 1871, a non-profit technology incubator. In the years since, Chicago transformed from a city falling behind in the tech economy, to a leading center for technology growth and innovation. Along the way, 1871 supported hundreds of startups and helped create over six thousand good paying jobs in Illinois.

“When Illinois was falling behind in the tech economy, I decided to think big, bring people together, and get results for our state,” said JB Pritzker. “I’m proud of our work building 1871, and helping turn Illinois into one of the top technology hubs in the world, a center for creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. But there is more work to be done. Under Governor Rauner’s failed leadership, Illinois is losing jobs and wasting opportunities. We need a Governor with big ideas, who knows how to bring people together and get things done.”

 

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JB Pritzker Promotes Innovation and Entrepreneurship on Two-Day Tech Tour

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, May 13, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

JB Tours Tech Incubator and Small Business Hub, Meets Tech Leaders, and Celebrates with 1871 Chicago

Chicago, IL – Yesterday, JB Pritzker concluded a two-day tech tour in Chicago and Southern Illinois. On Thursday, JB toured Blue 1647, a leading tech and innovation center and then hosted a roundtable discussion with tech leaders. On Friday, JB traveled to Southern Illinois-Carbondale to learn how their small business incubator supports local entrepreneurs and promotes economic development. JB ended the two-day tour at 1871’s Fifth Birthday Bash to celebrate the center’s efforts to build a vibrant tech economy for communities throughout the city.

“Illinois is home to some of the brightest minds in tech and entrepreneurship, and with the right platforms for their expertise and creativity to flourish, Illinois can lead the way in tech innovation,” said JB Pritzker. “Thanks to the work of 1871 and city tech leaders, Chicago has become one of the top cities for tech in the country. As Governor, I look forward to working with tech innovators to build on that success across our state. Together, we can create new, good paying jobs, promote innovation, and build tech and start up economies throughout Illinois.”

From WSIL:
From KFVS:

From The Southern Illinoisan: During a visit to the Small Business Development Center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale on Thursday, gubernatorial hopeful J.B. Pritzker said the state must better support small businesses and startups, which he called “the real engines of job creation.”

…

Pritzker said he was uniquely qualified to restore job growth in Southern Illinois, based on the jobs he’d created in his businesses and in the 1871 incubator.

“I happen to think that Southern Illinois has been forgotten by so many politicians,” Pritzker said. “It’s just become everybody’s tertiary thought process, and it should be front and center. It will be for me. Because I’ve seen across Southern Illinois, the manufacturing that’s gone away and the big companies that have gone away, nothing’s been put in its place … to create new jobs, and new jobs is what I do best.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY


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St. Clair County Democratic Central Committee Endorses JB Pritzker for Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, May 9, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Belleville, IL — The St. Clair County Democratic Central Committee voted to endorse JB Pritzker for governor. JB met with dozens of Democratic leaders across southwestern Illinois to listen and discuss the issues most important to their communities. The endorsement comes after JB’s several visits to Metro East.

“I am thrilled to have the support of Democrats across the state of Illinois, and St. Clair County is critical to Democrats’ chances of winning the governor’s race,” said JB Pritzker. “As governor, I will work to unify people to pass a budget, restore our social safety net, and stand up for working families. Unlike Bruce Rauner, I know pitting Illinoisans against each other won’t help us solve our state’s big problems. I’m ready to fight for all of our people, in every corner of Illinois.”

“We met with JB and discussed his vision for Illinois,” said Bob Sprague, St. Clair County Democratic Party Chairman. “He’s the right candidate to take on Bruce Rauner to create jobs, protect workers’ rights and fix the budget mess. We will support JB every step of the way in order to take back our state.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY




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JB Pritzker Shares Vision for Illinois in Metro East

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, May 8, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

JB Tours Cahokia School District and Meets with Local Laborers, Retired Steelworkers, and St. Clair County Democrats

Cahokia, IL — Today, JB Pritzker met with labor leaders and members from Local Laborers 100 in East St. Louis to share his priorities for working families in Illinois. JB then spoke at the SOAR Luncheon for retired steelworkers about job creation and fighting against Governor Rauner’s harmful legislation that has attacked working families and workers’ rights. JB also toured the Cahokia School District with Superintendent of District 187 Art Ryan and saw firsthand how a lack of state education funding has impacted the quality of education for Illinois students. JB ended the day by meeting with the St. Clair County Democrats to share his vision for improving the lives of people across the state.

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY



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Negocios Now: Governor hopeful JB Pritzker talks immigration, small businesses and Chicago violence

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, May 8, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Venture capitalist, entrepreneur and philanthropist Jay Robert “JB” Pritzker wants to rescue the state from Gov. Bruce Rauner. Pritzker has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2018 governor’s race, in which Rauner plans to seek re-election. And he’s not mincing words about the source of some of the state’s most serious problems.

“We’ve got to fix the challenges that Bruce Rauner has brought to the state,” Pritzker said in an exclusive interview with Negocios Now. “He has driven it off a cliff.”

Pritzker is highlighting his progressive, Democratic values to contrast his own campaign and personal experience with that of Rauner, readily admitting he is another “rich guy running for office.” The Pritzker family, descended from Ukrainian Jewish immigrants, is most well-known for making its fortune with the Hyatt hotel chain, and Forbes Magazine tallies JB Pritzker’s personal net worth at $3.4 billion.

But even though Pritzker and his family have come a long way since his great-grandfather arrived in the United States as a poor immigrant, Pritzker has not turned his back on that history. He is a strong supporter of pro-immigrant policy, tying his logic back to his own family. A social service agency helped his great-grandfather find a place to live when he arrived in Chicago, a public school helped him learn English and get a good education, and then a state university got him a college degree and set him up to be successful in law school.

Pritzker said every immigrant in Illinois should have the same opportunity — for the good of the entire state.

“Immigrants are often the biggest driver of small business and job creation so we need to nurture and support our immigrant community and not have them living in fear,” Pritzker said.

He added that the state needs to stand up for its so-called “sanctuary cities,” which have vowed to limit their cooperation with federal immigration authorities, but he stopped short of committing to declare Illinois a sanctuary state, saying he would have to look into it as governor.

Pritzker, 52, ran for U.S. Congress in 1998, losing in a crowded primary. He comes back to Illinois politics after, among other things, having started one of the top 10 tech hubs in the world, Chicago’s nonprofit business incubator 1871; helping expand the state’s school breakfast program so 175,000 more kids benefit; and working to found the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie.

Small business development and education are high on his list of priorities. Acknowledging that the state’s Latino business community struggles because of a lack of access to capital, Pritzker said he supported a state-backed small business loan fund, where the state would be a partial guarantor of the loan and business owners would get access to technical assistance and mentorship from the state, along with the money.

He rails against Rauner’s role in cutting state funding for education, especially considering the state’s reputation nationally. Illinois contributes a smaller share of funding for K-12 schools than any other state in the nation, which Pritzker says leads to higher property taxes and worse schools. He wants to lift up the state’s education system, alleviating property taxes and making sure kids get the education they need to find good jobs after graduation.

Read the full story HERE. 

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JB Pritzker Rallies and Marches, Attends Evanston Chapter Meeting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, May 6, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

JB Pritzker Rallies with Cook County Dems, Marches in Polish Parade, and Attends ABT-Evanston Meeting

Chicago, IL — Today, JB Pritzker spoke at the Cook County Democratic Party’s inaugural “Cook County Together” event and shared his progressive agenda to defeat Governor Rauner. JB then marched with thousands of Chicagoans in the nation’s largest Polish Constitution Day Parade to celebrate Polish culture and tradition. JB ended the day in Evanston with the grassroots organization, Action for a Better Tomorrow, to speak about the importance of resisting and his vision for the state of Illinois.

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY



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JB Pritzker Statement on House GOP’s Attack on Health Care

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 4, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL – Today, House Republicans will vote to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act with the American Health Care Act. This dangerous plan would be a disaster for millions of Americans across the country and here in Illinois.

JB Pritzker released the following statement in response:

“It’s unbelievable that Republicans, who are supposed to represent our families, will vote to take away health care from nearly 24 million Americans today,” said JB Pritzker. “This is exactly what we don’t need, tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires on the backs of Illinois’ working families and those with preexisting conditions. It’s time for Bruce Rauner to break his silence and stand up for the more than one million Illinoisans who will lose their health care. As governor, I will stand up against the Trump-Rauner agenda and fight for all Illinoisans to have access to health care.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Rauner’s Plan to Veto “Trigger Bill”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, April 14, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL —  Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement on Governor Rauner’s plan to veto HB40, which would cover abortions for women on state employee health insurance and Medicaid, and would remove a “trigger provision” that would make abortions illegal if Roe v. Wade was overturned.

“Bruce Rauner should be ashamed of himself. No pro-choice governor would take this position and restrict access to these critical services for Illinois women,” said JB Pritzker. “Rauner is proving yet again that he not only shares an extreme agenda with Donald Trump, but also lied to voters when he claimed that he cares about a woman’s right to choose. This decision is deeply hurtful to me and to women across this state. I have been fighting to protect women’s healthcare and reproductive rights my whole life and will do the same as Illinois’ next governor.”

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JB Pritzker to Meet with Pastors United for Change

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, April 13, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

WHAT
JB Pritzker to meet and speak with Pastors United for Change. Pastors United for Change (PUC) is a social justice organization that unites faith-based communities to advocate for positive change in socially-disadvantaged populations.

 

WHEN
Thursday, April 13 at 1:30 PM

 

WHERE
Bethlehem Star Missionary Baptist Church
9231 South Cottage Grove
Chicago, IL 60619

 

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Pritzker Campaign Releases First “JB and Me” Online Video

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, April 12, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

First in a Series of Online Videos Highlighting JB’s Commitment to the Future of Illinois

Chicago, IL —  Today, the JB for Governor campaign released the first in a series of “JB and Me” online videos highlighting JB’s commitment to his community and the future of Illinois.

The video features Neal Sales-Griffin’s work to help people learn how to write computer code. With the help of 1871, a non-profit small business hub that JB founded to help small tech companies get started, Neal was able to build a company that has taught 1,600 people how to code, design, and build web applications.

“I’ve seen firsthand JB’s impact on hundreds, even thousands of other people and businesses,”said Neal Sales-Griffin. “JB sees a challenge — something that others might see as insurmountable — and he’s ready to take it on. I know I’m just one guy, but I hope that my story will help shed a little light on who this man is, and what motivates him. JB Pritzker helped change my life, and I can’t wait to watch him change Illinois.”

WATCH: “Neal”

The best way to get to know someone is to talk to the people that really know them. Over the course of this campaign, we’ll be putting voters directly in touch with the people who know JB and releasing more “JB and Me” videos.

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14 Unions Endorse JB Pritzker For Governor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 3, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Working Families and Labor Movement Stand with JB

Chicago, IL – Today, 14 labor unions came together to endorse JB Pritzker for governor. Under Bruce Rauner, working families and workers’ rights have been under attack, and JB will stand up for workers’ rights and work with the labor movement to fight against harmful legislation that lowers wages.

During the event today at the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399 in Chicago, JB also shared his priorities to raise wages in Illinois.

JB is proud to have the support of the following unions for the Democratic Primary:

Chicago Regional Council of Carpenters

The Chicago District Council of Laborers’

Local 881 UFCW

Boilermakers Local 1

Bricklayers District Council

International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 2

Heat and Frost Insulators Local 17

Ironworkers Chicago District Council & Vicinity

Operating Engineers Local 150

Operating Engineers Local 399

Plasterers and Cement Masons Local 502

UA Plumbers Local 130

Roofers and Waterproofers Local 11

Sheet Metal Workers Local 73

“I am ready to fight for working families across our state and I’m grateful to have so much support from the labor movement,” said JB Pritzker. “Bruce Rauner’s policies are a race to the bottom at the expense of working families. The fact is, the labor movement is key to restoring the middle class in Illinois, and I’m committed to working together to protect our families. With working families behind me, we can take back the governor’s office and make sure there’s an advocate for worker’s rights in Springfield.”

Ron Powell, President Local 881 UFCW said, “We need a Democratic nominee that is going to build on what we’ve gained over years of fighting and negotiating for working families including fair wages, paid sick leave, and safe workplaces. JB has been traveling across Illinois listening to people and hearing that they need an advocate, someone who will take their concerns with them into the State House and protect and advance their values. I am proud to have someone that is going to fight for my members and take the fight to Bruce Rauner and beat him.”

James P. Connolly, Chicago Laborers’ District Council Business Manager said, “Infrastructure is a major component of our economy – the movement of goods and services rely on Illinois as the hub of the Midwest. JB Pritzker understands that in order to have economic growth you must have infrastructure that can handle the growth and a well-trained workforce to build and maintain it. He understands and appreciates the skills and strength of organized Labor. He believes in organized Labor and does not blame us for the state’s problems – rather he sees us as part of the solution. Everything he has been doing his entire career has been about investing in people and helping our economy thrive. JB Pritzker is a giver not a taker, and it is for these reasons and many more that we support JB Pritzker for Governor.”

Brian Hickey, President and Business Manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399 said, “November of 2018 will be here before we know it and we need someone who is going to stand and fight for us, we need a leader who is going to listen, who respects the people who feed their families by learning a trade or craft, and stand up for those values every day. Twenty years ago, J.B. Pritzker came to meet our members and leadership when he was running for Congress. He was young, but earnest and committed to the issues important the labor movement. We were impressed and we endorsed him back then. Today, he remains a committed fighter on behalf of working families and union households who need a governor who will stand with them. Twenty years later, I’m proud to offer the support of Local 399 on behalf of our membership and we are proud to endorse JB Pritzker as our candidate for governor.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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WATCH: Working Families Share Why They Support JB

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 3, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

Chicago, IL — In anticipation of today’s event with working families at the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399 in Chicago, the Pritzker campaign released the following video to share why members of the labor movement are standing with JB.

 

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JB Pritzker Campaign Releases First TV Ad: “Think Big”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, May 2, 2017

CONTACT:
[email protected]

New Ad Highlight’s JB’s Progressive Record of Thinking Big and Getting Things Done

Chicago, IL — Today, the JB Pritzker for Governor campaign released its first TV ad, a 60-second spot called “Think Big.” The ad will air in markets across the state.

“Think Big” highlights JB’s progressive record of getting things done, including his work to bring new, good paying jobs to Illinois by helping build 1871, a non-profit technology small business incubator, by working with non-profits like Share Our Strength and Greater Chicago Food Depository to provide school breakfast to 55,000 Illinois kids, and JB’s work as a national leader in early childhood education.

“Today, I’m excited to release our campaign’s first TV ad and continue introducing myself to people across Illinois,” said JB Pritzker. “As I’ve traveled across the state, I’ve visited organizations and met with Illinoisans who are paying the price for Governor Rauner’s failure every day. It’s time we fight for what’s right and get our state back on track. By working together, I know that we can get real results for Illinois families and our communities.”

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