In The News: JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton Kick Off Statewide Think Big Bus Tour

Day 1 of ‘Think Big’ Bus Tour Included Stops in Chicago, Ottawa and Peoria

Peoria, IL — Yesterday, JB Pritzker and State Representative Juliana Stratton kicked off their six-day, 22-stop Think Big bus tour. They promoted their priorities for creating jobs downstate, opened a new field office in Peoria, and highlighted their statewide grassroots campaign.
CHICAGO KICK OFF:
The bus tour began in Chicago with a kick off press conference in the South Loop:

From Crain’s Chicago:

Hoping to shore up his status as the emerging Democratic gubernatorial front-runner, Chicago businessman J.B. Pritzker is off on a six-day, 22-stop statewide bus tour. […]

First details of the tour, which Pritzker and running mate Juliana Stratton say will give them an opportunity “to meet working families across the state and continue building on our robust, statewide grassroots movement.”

The trip begins this afternoon in Chicago, with the first stops in Ottawa and Peoria. Then it’s off to Bloomington, Springfield and Taylorville, among other locales.

STOP IN OTTAWA:
The day continued with a short stop in Ottawa:

From The News Tribune: A frontrunner for governor visits La Salle County:

Gubernatorial hopeful J.B. Pritzker stopped by Washington Park on Wednesday on his way for a six-day tour of the state. The statues of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas were the second stop of what will amount to 22.

The park began filling up with local people, union representatives and local Democrats at about 3:15 p.m. in anticipation of a 3:45 p.m. arrival. When the bus pulled up just after 4 p.m. a sizable crowd had formed. Pritzker and his running mate, state Rep. Juliana Stratton (D-Chicago), shook the hands of the people who had come out to see them. […]

Pritzker hammered Rauner on his handling of Illinois’ finances. Cande Castellanos, of Ottawa, said her son, a state employee, had lost his doctor because the state was so late in paying his medical bills.

“We’ve gotta pay our bills in this state,” Pritzker said. “The doctors can’t float the state.”

Castellano also asked Pritzker to not forget Latinos once he got to Springfield.

“I’ve been fighting my entire life for civil rights,” he said. “There’s no candidate that fought harder against Donald Trump than I did.”

From The Ottawa Times: Democratic gubernatorial candidate Pritzker visits Ottawa:

Ottawa was Day 1 of a six-day, 22-stop “Think Big” bus tour where Pritzker and his lieutenant governor candidate Juliana Stratton are promoting their priorities for creating jobs beyond Chicago, opening field offices in Peoria, Belleville and Chicago, and highlighting their grassroots field operation.

With his shirt sleeves rolled up, Pritzker smiled for photos and shook hands with those in attendance. Staying about a half hour in the park, Pritzker said his campaign was about bold ideas that will move the state forward.

“Juliana and I look forward to sharing our vision to create jobs and grow our economy with Illinoisans in every corner of the state.” he said.

Pritzker said he and Stratton are setting priorities for improvements in school funding as well as creating new jobs and fixing the health care system within the state.

PEORIA OFFICE OPENING:

They wrapped up the day at the JB for Governor Peoria office opening. JB and Juliana both spoke about their priorities for creating jobs downstate and their commitment to running a statewide, grassroots campaign. JB and Juliana were joined by State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth.

From WMBD:

From WYZZ:


From the Peoria Journal Star: 

It comes down to infrastructure for Democratic gubernatorial candidate JB Pritzker.

That’s the centerpiece of his jobs plan for the Land of Lincoln, released Wednesday at the start of a six-day bus tour of the state, including a stop in Peoria. It also includes proposals for small business and manufacturing growth and improvements targeted at the agriculture industry.

“Quality infrastructure attracts new businesses to our state, keeps existing businesses here, and allows all of our businesses — from family farmers to manufacturers — to thrive,” Pritzker says in the plan.

The businessman and philanthropist offered up additional details about it during a stop Wednesday evening to open a campaign office — Pritzker’s third stop in the Peoria area since Saturday.

From WMBD:

“He’s got this right-wing agenda that he wants to bring to the state of Illinois,” said Pritzker. “It was a hidden agenda that he’s had under his Carhartt jacket, apparently, when he ran for governor. It’s the Koch brothers right-wing agenda that says he wants to destroy unions, that says he wants to lower wages in the state and, apparently, it means he wants to privatize education, too.”

Prtizker made the comments during a stop in Peoria Wednesday evening as his campaign marked the opening of a field office in the River City.

The visit was part of a 22-stop bus tour across the state, which the campaign calls “Think Big.”

 

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JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton Endorsed by Midwest Region LIUNA

Bloomington, IL — Today, JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton were endorsed by the Midwest Region of the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA). The Midwest Region of LIUNA represents over 55,000 laborers, including construction workers, healthcare providers, and industrial employees. The endorsement comes on the second day of JB and Juliana’s statewide Think Big bus tour, where they are highlighting their priorities to create jobs across the state.

“I am so proud and honored to receive the endorsement of the hard-working members of the Laborers’ Union,” said JB Pritzker. “I will work tirelessly every day as Illinois’ next governor to fight for economic opportunity for every worker in this state. Together, we will grow the economy across our state, create jobs, and protect the rights of our unions to organize and collectively bargain. We are building a grassroots statewide movement and I am thrilled to have the Laborers’ Union standing with us in the fight ahead.”

“JB Pritzker has a track record of creating jobs and building economic opportunity,” said LIUNA Midwest Regional Manager John Penn. “JB understands full well that investing in infrastructure and putting thousands of construction workers to work rebuilding our state is not only good for them and their families, it’s crucial to the Illinois economy. Workers have learned over the last three, long years what Bruce Rauner’s agenda is. The attacks on the rights and wages of Illinois workers will only end the day that Rauner leaves the governor’s office for good. And JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton have the plan and vision to make that happen.”

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Juliana Stratton: Pritzker’s Running Mate Speaks Out

A frontrunner for governor visits La Salle County

Democratic Party Candidate For Governor Makes Campaign Visit To Union County

Pritzker praises labor, attacks Rauner at B-N stop

 

FRONT PAGE: Juliana Stratton Speaks Out

Chicago, IL – State Representative and lieutenant governor candidate Juliana Stratton was profiled by the Chicago Defender and landed on the front page. Read the story here:

Chicago Defender: Juliana Stratton: Pritzker’s Running Mate Speaks Out
By Mary L. Datcher

On a hot summer day in early August, people packed into the Englewood field house for an official announcement that some anticipated was the boldest move made by the JB Pritzker campaign since the billionaire started his bid as an Illinois gubernatorial candidate.

The evening before, the news leaked Pritzker tapped 5th District State Representative Juliana Stratton as his running mate for Lieutenant Governor.  To political insiders, this decision would not be surprising since the Democratic candidate has laid down stakes in the African American community since May. To select the first African American woman as a campaign partner brought the added adrenaline shot it needed and once again thrusts Stratton back into the political spotlight. […]

“I’m so excited to have been asked by JB to join him on this team. I very much believe in his leadership ability. I believe he is the one to steer this state in the right direction after the failed leadership of Gov. Rauner.  He and I have gotten to know each other over these last several months,” Stratton says.

“JB was a leader in early childhood education — that’s a priority of his. He helped to make sure 100’s of thousands of children and low-income families got breakfast. He recognized that getting a good early start in life is important.” […]

“He [Rauner] has a personal agenda. His agenda is not about doing what’s best for our communities. I’m motivated that I can join up with someone like JB. I believe he brings the vision. He brings the leadership abilities. He brings capacity to get things done because we’ve been stuck in Illinois for the last 2 1/2 years under Gov. Rauner’s failed leadership,” said Stratton. […]

When addressing a room full of people, Stratton is poised and confident. Her discipline is attributed to her love for working out and training for marathons and triathlons over the years. She is focused and direct but conscious of the fight ahead in the next few months while gearing up to travel throughout central and downstate Illinois — she says “as many communities as we can to hear from talking to people directly.”

Read the full front page story HERE.

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JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton to Kick-Off Six Day, 22-Stop Statewide “Think Big” Bus Tour

JB Pritzker to Open Three Offices Across State, Outline Priorities for Creating Jobs

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton will begin a six day, 22-stop bus tour where they will promote their priorities for creating jobs downstate, open three field offices in Peoria, Belleville, and Chicago, and highlight their grassroots field operation that is growing throughout the state. Stopping in 15 cities and towns across Illinois, JB and Juliana will kick-off the tour with an event in Chicago before making a stop in Ottawa and opening a field office in Peoria.

“I’m thrilled to embark on our ‘Think Big’ bus tour to meet working families across our state and continue building on our robust, statewide grassroots movement,” said JB Pritzker. “This campaign is about bold ideas that will move our state forward, and Juliana and I look forward to sharing our vision to create jobs and grow our economy with Illinoisans in every corner of the state.”

RSVP: [email protected]

STOP 1 – CHICAGO

WHAT
JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton to kick-off their statewide Think Big bus tour at a press conference.

WHEN
Wednesday, August 30 at 1:30 PM

WHERE
Michigan Avenue and between 21st Street and Cullerton Street
Chicago, IL 60616

STOP 2 –  OTTAWA

WHAT
JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton to stop by the Lincoln-Douglas debate statues.

WHEN
Wednesday, August 30 at 3:45 PM

WHERE
Washington Park
101 East Lafayette Street
Ottawa, IL 61350

STOP 3 – PEORIA

WHAT
JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton will be joined by State Representative Jehan Gordon-Booth to highlight their statewide, grassroots campaign and outline their priorities for creating jobs downstate at an opening of the JB for Governor campaign office in Peoria.

WHEN
Wednesday, August 30 at 5:45 PM

WHERE
JB for Governor Peoria Office
1800 North Knoxville Avenue, #3
Peoria, IL 61603

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JB Pritzker economic plan focuses on infrastructure, small-business growth

Pritzker sets off on a road trip

Pritzker holds meet and greet

JB Pritzker Statement on the Illinois House Passing a School Funding Formula

Chicago, IL – JB Pritzker released the following statement after the Illinois House passed a school funding formula.

“I am relieved to know that our schools will be funded using an equitable school funding formula, but it is disappointing that Bruce Rauner used our students as pawns in his political games to get a back-door voucher program put in place,” said JB Pritzker. “As governor, I will not support school vouchers and will work to do away with this program.”

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JB Pritzker Finishes Tour Through Central and Southern Illinois

Canton, IL — Today, JB Pritzker wrapped up his tour through central and southern Illinois with stops in Bartonville and Canton. At his stops, he discussed his plans to revitalize Illinois’ economy and promote job growth in every corner of the state.

The day began at Congresswoman Cheri Bustos’ Downstate Forum and Barbecue at Alpha Park:

JB spoke at a Fulton County Democrats meeting afterwards, emphasizing the need to win up and down the ticket:


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JB Pritzker Wraps Up Central and Southern Illinois Swing

RSVP: [email protected]
 
STOP 1 – BARTONVILLE
 
WHAT
JB Pritzker to attend a candidate forum and barbecue hosted by Congresswoman Cheri Bustos.
 
WHEN
Saturday, August 26 at 11:00 AM
 
WHERE
Alpha Park
3300 South Airport Road
Bartonville, IL 61607
 
STOP 2 – CANTON
 
WHAT
JB Pritzker to speak at a Fulton County Democrats meeting.
 
WHEN
Saturday, August 26 at 3:00 PMWHERE
Big Racks Steakhouse
1920 North Main Street
Canton, IL 61520

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JB Continues Tour Through Central and Southern Illinois in Benton, Vienna, and Du Quoin

Du Quoin, IL — JB Pritzker continued his tour through Central and Southern Illinois today with stops in Benton, Vienna, and Du Quoin. Along the way, he discussed the importance of protecting workers’ rights, his plans to invest in infrastructure, and his vision for rebuilding social service agencies in the state.

He began the day at a meeting with mine workers in Benton:

JB then visited Autumn Ridge Supportive Living Facility of Family Counseling Center, Inc. Autumn Ridge provides behavioral health and developmental services to children and adults along with senior supportive living services. JB learned about the cuts forced on Family Counseling Centers, Inc. by Bruce Rauner’s budget crisis, and discussed his vision for social services in the state:

The day wrapped up with the Du Quoin State Fair Twilight parade. JB marched with local leaders and working families and stopped by the Southern Illinois Democratic Women’s tent:

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JB Pritzker Response To Rauner’s $15 Minimum Wage Veto

Chicago, IL – In response to Bruce Rauner vetoing a bill that would have raised the minimum wage to $15 an hour, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Today, Bruce Rauner vetoed an opportunity for working families across this state to build better lives,” said JB Pritzker. “Once again, Rauner abandoned Illinois working men and women and stood in the way of progress for those striving to get into the middle class. It is time Illinois’ working families had a partner in Springfield who is committed to the fight for 15. I know we need to raise the minimum wage to $15 and I will make sure Illinois workers have a seat at the table in the work ahead. Rauner’s veto reminds us that our fight is far from over and I look forward to standing with Illinois families every step of the way.”

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JB Pritzker Kicks Off Central and Southern Illinois Swing

Murphysboro, IL — Yesterday, JB Pritzker kicked off his tour through central and southern Illinois with campaign stops in Cairo, Jonesboro, and Murphysboro. He discussed his plans to invest in infrastructure, fight for quality education, and expand healthcare coverage in Illinois.

He began the day at a lunch with Alexander County Democrats in Cairo:

JB then stopped by Jonesboro for a meeting with Union County Democrats at Dixie Barbecue:

He wrapped up the day with remarks at a dinner for Jackson County Democrats. JB was joined at the dinner by local elected officials and community leaders:

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Pritzker Visits Vienna in Campaign Swing Through Southern IL

In The News: Jesse White Endorses JB Pritzker

Chicago, IL – Secretary of State Jesse White endorsed JB Pritzker for governor yesterday, the first endorsement by a statewide elected official in the Democratic primary for governor. The announcement at Eckhart Park was kicked off by a performance by the Jesse White Tumblers.

Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about Jesse White’s endorsement:

From WBBM:


WATCH: 


From WCIA:


From WGN:


From WHBF:


From WEVV:


From CLTV:


From WFLD:


From Politico:

JESSE WHITE IN FOR PRITZKER

As we tweeted on Tuesday, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White will endorse J.B. Pritzker for governor today, the Pritzker campaign confirmed. The Jesse White Tumbling Team will be on site for the morning news announcement. White, 83, is the state’s most popular constitutional officer and has stature across the state as well as in Chicago’s black community where Pritzker could enjoy a boost in a competitive Democratic primary for governor.

From the Chicago Tribune: Jesse White to endorse Pritzker for Democratic governor today:

Democratic governor hopeful J.B. Pritzker is set to be endorsed by Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White on Wednesday.

The long-serving, popular White is the first statewide-elected Democrat to endorse in the party’s crowded governor contest. The backing comes less than a week after White’s announcement that he would seek a sixth term in 2018 rather than retire as he’d initially indicated last year.

From the Chicago Sun-Times: Pritzker nabs another endorsement: Secretary of State Jesse White:

Before letting young people leap over his head Wednesday afternoon, Secretary of State Jesse White endorsed J.B. Pritzker for governor.

White stood as a prop for the troupe of gymnasts that bear his name, the Jesse White Tumblers, before the lovefest that accompanies political endorsements ensued.

The 83-year-old Democrat, speaking from a community gymnasium in the Noble Square neighborhood, gushed about “my good friend J.B. Pritzker” and his mastery of the “art of compromise.”

In seeking to burnish support in the African-American community, Pritzker found a key ally in White.

As Illinois’ only African-American statewide elected official, White is a political icon in the black community. And he’s respected for his cordial and calm demeanor on both sides of the aisle.

The veteran pol, first elected to his current office in 1998, announced last week he’ll seek reelection.

From WJBC: White endorses Pritzker in 2018 gubernatorial race:

Chicago billionaire businessman J.B. Pritzker has received the backing of one of the state’s most senior Democratic officeholders – Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White.

The 83-year-old White told WJBC’s Sam Wood that Pritzker is the best choice among a crowded Democratic field seeking to unseat incumbent Republican Governor Bruce Rauner.

White said Pritzker believes in the art of compromise.

“[Pritzker] will go with the best idea,” White said. “Sometimes, people will have their thoughts or ideas about a particular matter and he will have his…but he’ll sit down, take the best idea and go with it.”

From WMAY: Pritzker Gets Endorsement of Jesse White:

Democratic candidate for governor J.B. Pritzker has lined up another key endorsement in his campaign to unseat Republican Bruce Rauner.

Pritzker now has the support of popular Secretary of State Jesse White… who just announced that he is running for an unprecedented sixth term in office.

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Chicago Tribune: Pritzker camp mocks Rauner with ‘lost and found’ Craigslist ad

Secretary of State Jesse White Endorses JB Pritzker for Governor

Chicago, IL — Today, Secretary of State Jesse White announced his endorsement of JB Pritzker for governor at Eckhart Park on the West Side of Chicago. They event was kicked off with a performance by the Jesse White Tumblers.

The endorsement is the first by a statewide elected official in the Democratic primary for governor, and comes from a widely popular public servant who has won by large margins in his election bids. Secretary White is currently running for a record sixth term as Secretary of State, and has held a number of different public offices in Illinois for over 40 years. Under his leadership, Illinois has become a nationwide leader in road safety with strengthened DUI laws, a reformed CDL program, and improved teen driving guidelines. Jesse White is a veteran, former Chicago Public Schools teacher and administrator, and a lifelong public servant.

“For over half a century, Secretary of State Jesse White has defined public service in Illinois,” said JB Pritzker. “He is an Army veteran, a Chicago Cubs ball player, a Chicago Public School teacher, the first African American ever elected Illinois Secretary of State, one of the biggest vote getters in the history of our state, and a leader in every sense of the word. By his many good works and by his example, Jesse White inspires our young people to pursue public service and do good for Illinois. I’ve known Jesse for more than a quarter century, and back then as today, he inspires me. That’s why today, I am so proud to receive Jesse White’s endorsement in my campaign for governor.”

“I am so proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor,” said Secretary of State Jesse White. “JB and I have known each other for 30 years and I can confidently say that he’s always stood up for what’s right. JB has spent his life fighting for Illinoisans, helping create opportunity for working families and expanding quality education for Illinois’ children. That’s exactly the type of leadership we need. As secretary of state, I’ve worked to rebuild trust in Springfield and make government work for the people, but I need a partner in the governor’s office. I know that JB is the right candidate to lead our ticket in 2018 and work with me to get our state back on track.”

PHOTO FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Opinion | J.B. Pritzker: Early childhood education is an investment in our future

 

Pritzker nabs another endorsement: Secretary of State Jesse White

JB Pritzker Tours Child Care Provider Play Palz 101

Highlights Five-Point Plan for Early Childhood Education

Kankakee, IL — Today, JB Pritzker visited Play Palz 101 to learn about their child care services and the damage done by Bruce Rauner’s 736-day budget crisis. JB also discussed how he will expand early childhood education through his comprehensive birth-to-five plan.

Play Palz 101 is a child care provider that serves over 500 children in three locations in central Illinois. They offer a wide range of child care services in a safe, educational environment that helps kids grow.

“Play Palz serves an essential role in giving working families and children the tools they need to build better lives,” said JB Pritzker. “We should do everything we can to support their work and ensure children have access to care. But under Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership, child care providers have suffered and funding has been decimated. We need bold action to clean up the damage done by Bruce Rauner and that’s why I introduced my comprehensive birth-to-five early childhood education plan. As governor, I will work with organizations like Play Palz to ensure every child and every parent has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY
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In The News: JB Blasts Rauner and Trump at State Fair

Chicago, IL – On Democrat’s Day at the State Fair, JB Pritzker blasted Donald Trump for sympathizing with and promoting hate and Bruce Rauner for his deafening silence and failure to govern. Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about JB taking on the Trump-Rauner agenda:

From WCIA:

From WMAQ:

From CBS 2 Chicago: Illinois Democrats Speak Their Mind On The Gridlock In Springfield

J.B. Pritzker, front-runner in the crowded field of eight for Governor, led the charge in morphing Trump and Rauner.

“All of those days went by. Bruce Rauner is willing to say anything and unfortunately his silence over the many days speaks volumes,” Pritzker said.

From WGN: Democrat Day at the Illinois State Fair

The candidates focused on Charlottesville attacking President Trump.

J.B. Pritzker said,  “Donald Trump is a racist and a bigot and a xenophobe and a liar.”

Governor Rauner was also a favorite target and nearly every candidate took a shot at him.

From ABC 7 Chicago: Illinois Democrats rally at Chairman’s Brunch at State Fair Thursday

“We’re here today so they can hear us and that we can all pull together because we’ve got to in order to beat Bruce Rauner in 2018,” said gubernatorial candidate JB Pritzker.

From Chicago Sun-Times: Pritzker dubs Trump ‘racist,’ ‘liar,’ as Dems rip prez, Rauner at fair

SPRINGFIELD – Gubernatorial hopeful J.B. Pritzker had the most damning take on President Donald Trump, calling him “a racist and a bigot and a xenophobe and a liar.” […]

Pritzker, a billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist, took note of a Fox News interview the governor did last week in which he was asked whether Trump is a good president.

“He was afraid to utter a negative word,” Pritzker told thousands at the breakfast. “Well I’m not afraid. Donald Trump is a racist and a bigot and a xenophobe and a liar. And Bruce Rauner’s silence is deafening.”

Pritzker, the perceived frontrunner in the primary Democratic race, urged Democrats to “stand together against Bruce Rauner.”

‘This general election against Bruce Rauner isn’t going to be an easy one. You know what? We’ve got a fight ahead,” Pritzker said.

From Chicago Tribune: Democratic governor candidates say Rauner too late in criticizing Trump

Billionaire entrepreneur and investor J.B. Pritzker told the crowd in his pitch to be the party’s governor nominee that Trump was “a racist and a bigot and a xenophobe.” Earlier, he told reporters Rauner’s response to Trump was “too little, too late.”

“Unfortunately, we have a president who does not seem to understand that white supremacy, neo-Nazis, bigots need to be called out immediately,” Pritzker said.

“All of those days went by before Bruce Rauner is willing to say anything, and unfortunately his silence over those many days speaks volumes,” he said. “I’m disappointed. We need a governor who’s going to stand up and call out racism and xenophobia and bigotry whenever and wherever it occurs.”

From AP: Dem Hopefuls Target Trump as Well as Rauner

Chicago businessman J.B. Pritzker and others criticized Trump for suggesting blame should be shared by both sides in a violent clash last weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia, when a man plowed his car into a crowd protesting a rally by neo-Nazis and others. Pritzker said Democrats “are all on one side … the American side.”

From WMAY: Democratic Candidates for Governor Take Shots at Rauner

In a live interview on WMAY, J.B. Pritzker said Rauner has been “AWOL” when it comes to resolving the school funding crisis or standing up to President Trump.

From State Journal Register: Candidates line up on Democrat Day to criticize and link Rauner, Trump

They’re lining up to run against Gov. Bruce Rauner, but Democratic challengers Thursday spent as much time talking about President Donald Trump and trying to link the two unpopular Republicans.

It made for some incendiary speeches Thursday at the annual Democrat Day brunch at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. Organizers put the crowd at about 1,800, the largest in the history of the event.

Billionaire businessman J.B. Pritzker said Rauner was afraid to criticize Trump last week during an interview on Fox News.

“He was afraid to utter a negative word,” Pritzker said. “Well, I’m not afraid. Donald Trump is a racist and a bigot and a xenophobe and a liar. And Bruce Rauner’s silence is deafening.” […]

Speaking before the event, Pritzker said it was “too little, too late from Bruce Rauner with regard to Donald Trump’s comments. All of those days went by before Bruce Rauner is willing to say anything. His silence over too many days speaks volumes.”

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During Week of Hatred, Rauner Allies Promote Division Instead of Healing

Rauner Fails in Responses to Charlottesville and IPI Cartoon

Chicago, IL – Just days after Bruce Rauner refused to call attacks by white supremacists in Charlottesville terrorism, Rauner‘s allies at the Illinois Policy Institute (IPI) published a flagrantly racist cartoon to advance their divisive agenda. While members of both parties rebuked the cartoon from the House floor this week, Bruce Rauner’s chief spokeswoman — who was hired directly from the IPI — said that Rauner hadn’t seen the cartoon and then flatly denied that it was racist.
Rauner’s silence comes despite close ties to the Institute, with many of his senior staff coming directly from their ranks. The IPI has since pulled down the cartoon, but refuses to apologize.

“When Bruce Rauner was asked to take a principled stand on the white supremacist rally and terrorist attack in Charlottesville, he waited for Donald Trump before giving a half-hearted response,” said Pritzker campaign communications director Galia Slayen. “Now, Rauner’s refusal to respond to an obscenely racist cartoon from the Illinois Policy Institute is on a similar plane of moral bankruptcy. This is what happens when you staff your administration with radicals from a far-right think tank and would rather divide and pit communities against each other than help this state heal. There aren’t two sides to what happened this week — there is right and there is wrong — and it is abundantly clear which side Bruce Rauner and Donald Trump are on.”

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JB Pritzker Kicks off Democrat’s Day at the IDCCA Brunch

Springfield, IL — Today, JB Pritzker spoke at the Illinois Democratic County Chairmen Association brunch. The annual event serves as a kickoff for Democrat’s Day at the Illinois State Fair. JB was joined by his running mate, State Representative Juliana Stratton.

“My running mate, Juliana, and I are thrilled to be building a grassroots statewide campaign that reaches voters in every corner of Illinois,” said JB Pritzker. “We’re sharing our message of fighting for working families, investing in quality education for every child, and defending and expanding quality healthcare. With the damage being done in Springfield and the hate coming from Washington, this is a moment for us to unite as Democrats and fight for our values. Together, we’re going to resist Donald Trump, beat Bruce Rauner, and get Illinois back on track.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY
  
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Pritzker dubs Trump ‘racist,’ ‘liar,’ as Dems rip prez, Rauner at fair

ELECTIONS 2018: GOVERNOR J.B. Pritzker talks campaign, trans cousin and state budget

JB Pritzker Statement on Donald Trump’s Horrific Press Conference

Chicago, IL – In response to Donald Trump continuing to send the office of the presidency to new lows and disgracing every value this country stands for, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“This unhinged disgrace to the presidency just openly sympathized with Nazis on national television,” said JB Pritzker. “There are not two sides when it comes to white nationalists and domestic terrorism. There are not two sides to the murder of an innocent person and the flames of fear and terror these bigots are spreading in so many of our communities. And there are not two sides when it comes to Donald Trump’s refusal to condemn them and Bruce Rauner’s spineless word parsing and dodging. Donald Trump is a horrifying excuse for a president and any elected leader not willing to stand up to him is not worthy of the office they hold.”

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JB Pritzker Campaign Releases New TV Ad: “Illinois Cares”

New Ad Highlights JB’s Commitment to Expanding Healthcare in Illinois
 

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker campaign released a new TV ad, “Illinois Cares.” The ad highlights Donald Trump’s attacks on healthcare, Bruce Rauner’s deafening silence, and JB’s commitment to expanding healthcare in Illinois.

Earlier this month, JB released his healthcare plan: Illinois Cares. This public health insurance option provides every Illinois resident with the opportunity to buy low-cost health insurance. Illinois Cares expands health care in Illinois and lowers premiums at no additional cost to taxpayers.

“Healthcare is a right, not a privilege and I will never be complacent in defending and expanding that right,” said JB Pritzker. “That’s why I proposed Illinois Cares, a plan that would have Illinois lead the nation as the first to allow every resident to buy into a state healthcare plan. For far too long, we’ve seen cowardice and silence from Bruce Rauner as Donald Trump attacks the healthcare of Illinoisans. It’s time for Illinois to boldly lead the way in standing up to Trump and providing the affordable healthcare that all of our families need to thrive.”

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Local Dem women group hosts guv hopeful Pritzker, running mate Stratton

MEDIUM: JB Pritzker: There Is Only Right And Wrong

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following post on Medium reacting to the hateful and tragic events in Charlottesville, Virginia, this past weekend.
 
 

This past Saturday, I spent the morning with my running mate, Juliana Stratton, at perhaps one of the most joyful events of the year — the Bud Billiken parade, the largest African-American parade in the country with people of all backgrounds coming together.

Unfortunately, that same afternoon, we sat in horror watching the events of Charlottesville unfold.

The violence led by neo-Nazis and the tragic murder of 32-year-old Heather Heyer, an anti-hate protester in Charlottesville, Virginia, shocked the conscience and left many Americans wondering what direction our leaders would provide after the violence advocated by white supremacists.

At these moments of national concern, we all look to our leaders, particularly our president, hoping the government will weigh in unequivocally against evil. But instead Donald Trump’s response on Saturday was to say “this egregious display of hatred, bigotry and violence on many sides — on many sides.” There are not many sides to the Charlottesville murder. There is only right and wrong.

There’s a truth about public service that is often unspoken and rarely understood — that the role of our elected officials is about much more than balancing budgets and ensuring the delivery of essential services. It is about setting a tone affirming that all Americans may live free from the threat of violence based upon their race, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation.

And that our society will ensure their protection, reinforcing that message with the passage of meaningful hate crime laws, appropriate training of law enforcement and the judiciary, and the organizing of community forums to give our fellow citizens, our very neighbors, the opportunity to be heard in a respectful and safe environment.

Setting a tone of inclusiveness and ensuring protection for all begins at the top, whether from the White House or the Statehouse. There may be no more important obligation of our elected chief executives than to demonstrate such moral leadership and clarity. But if we are slow to act, or equivocate, or abdicate this responsibility altogether, the bigots, haters and extremists will fill the breach, and they will take it as a sign they can get away with it again.

Elie Wiesel once said “We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” As a victim of the Nazis’ horrific effort to wipe out Jews, Roma, LGBT people and so many others, Wiesel knew that there is no place for neutrality when it comes to rebuking hate.

Leadership means setting a moral tone. There are not “many sides” in the fight against hatred and bigotry. There is only right and wrong.

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JB Pritzker Statement on Bruce Rauner’s Cowardice

Chicago, IL – JB Pritzker released the following statement after Bruce Rauner refused to call the attacks in Charlottesville terrorism:

“White supremacists are terrorizing communities and Bruce Rauner is mincing words and tiptoeing around our bigoted president,” said JB Pritzker. “The injured and dead who protested this weekend deserve better than this flagrant cowardice from Bruce Rauner and Donald Trump. If we are going to address what happened in Charlottesville then we should have the courage to call it exactly what it is: terrorism.”

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JB Pritzker Statement on Senate Override of Rauner School Funding Veto

Chicago, IL — JB Pritzker released the following statement in response to the Senate successfully overriding Bruce Rauner’s amendatory veto of Senate Bill 1:

“Today’s action by the Senate is a step towards getting the school funding our students, parents, and teachers across the state deserve,” said JB Pritzker. “Bruce Rauner’s reckless veto left our state’s 852 public school districts without a way to get state funding and even though Rauner agreed with 90 percent of SB 1, he chose to use school funding as leverage to score a political win. Bruce Rauner’s damage is done and he’s proven once again that he is incapable of governing without throwing our state into a crisis.”

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A Busy Week for JB Pritzker & Juliana Stratton

Chicago, IL — The JB for Governor campaign had an exciting week filled with special announcements and grassroots events with hundreds of supporters. Here’s what JB and Juliana were up to this week:

BUD BILLIKEN PARADE

Yesterday, JB and Juliana marched in the Bud Billiken parade on Chicago’s South Side with over 250 supporters. The Bud Billiken parade is the largest African American parade in the nation.

WATCH the JB for Governor Team on ABC 7 Chicago:


LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR ANNOUNCEMENT

On Thursday, JB proudly announced State Rep. Juliana Stratton as his running mate in the fight against Bruce Rauner. As lieutenant governor, Stratton will bring her experience as an administrative judge, criminal justice reform advocate, state representative, and mediator to get things done for the people of Illinois. After the announcement rally in Englewood, JB and Juliana marched in the Twilight Parade in Springfield. Watch the intro video “Meet Juliana Stratton” and see what Illinoisans are reading in the news here.


WEST SIDE RALLY

On Tuesday, JB held a rally with community leaders and over 500 residents from the South and West Sides of Chicago. JB discussed important issues impacting the African-American community and outlined his plans to expand access to capital for small businesses, ensure equitable school funding for every child in Illinois, increase access to affordable healthcare, and root out racism in the criminal justice system.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION PLAN

On Wednesday, JB released his five-point plan to expand early childhood education in Illinois. JB’s proposal outlines what he will do as governor to build a comprehensive birth-to-five educational system so every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Read the full plan here: https://www.jbpritzker.com/ece/

STATEWIDE ENDORSEMENTS

On Friday, JB humbly received the endorsements of the Cook County Democratic Party and 23 Democratic county chairs from across the state. The chairs represent every region of the state, showing support from the Northern, Western, Central, Metro East, and Southern regions of Illinois. The county chairs supporting JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton’s statewide campaign include the chairs of Adams, Alexander, Bond, Calhoun, Christian, Greene, Hamilton, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Kane, Macon, Massac, McLean, Menard, Richland, Saline, Sangamon, Shelby, St. Clair, Tazewell, Wayne, and Williamson counties.

Chicago Sun-Times: J.B. Pritzker gets Cook County Democrats’ endorsement for governor

The Cook County Democratic Party on Friday endorsed billionaire and philanthropist J.B. Pritzker for governor in next year’s hotly contested primary — bolstering his status as a frontrunner.

Pritzker vowed to fight for working-class families and strengthen the state’s Democratic party with a vast network of resources, while businessman Chris Kennedy pledged he’d transform the Democratic Party into the party of “reform,” as the two best-known Democratic candidates appeared before party slatemakers Friday morning.

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JB Pritzker Endorsed by Cook County Democratic Party and 23 Democratic County Chairs Statewide

Chicago, IL — Today, JB Pritzker was endorsed by the Cook County Democratic Party and 23 Democratic county chairs from across the state. The chairs represent every region of the state, showing support from the Northern, Western, Central, Metro East, and Southern regions of Illinois.

The county chairs supporting JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton’s statewide campaign include the chairs of Adams, Alexander, Bond, Calhoun, Christian, Greene, Hamilton, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Kane, Macon, Massac, McLean, Menard, Richland, Saline, Sangamon, Shelby, St. Clair, Tazewell, Wayne, and Williamson counties.

“Today, I’m proud to receive the endorsement of Democrats from Cook County and county chairs from across the state,” said JB Pritzker. “As governor, I will stand with Illinois working families as we fight for our shared Democratic values. It is time for Democrats to unite against Bruce Rauner. After holding the state budget hostage for over two years, this failed governor has proven that the damage is done and that he is unfit to lead our state. Juliana and I are proud to be running a statewide, grassroots campaign that will defeat Rauner in 2018 and support candidates up and down the ticket. We look forward to meeting Illinoisans in every county and getting our state back on track.”

“After more than two years of destruction to Illinois caused by Bruce Rauner’s ideological war on the middle class, Democrats must nominate a candidate in 2018 who will put the interests of working families first,” said Calhoun County Democratic Party Chairman Paul Herkert. “JB is best suited to not only defeat Bruce Rauner, but to reverse the severe damage he has caused our state.”

“The 2018 elections will be crucial for Illinois’ middle class families,” said Adams County Democratic Party Chairman Keith Neiwohner. “It is vital that voters elect to the office of governor a person possessing the qualities of independence, integrity, and honesty to oversee the state government. With so much at stake, the Democratic Party must have candidates with strong records of fighting for the middle class. JB’s candidacy will be an asset to all families in Illinois.”

“Governor Rauner’s anti-working class agenda has devastated communities across Illinois, and has been particularly harmful to the men and women of Sangamon County,” said Sangamon County Democratic Party Chairman Doris Turner. “I believe that because of JB’s experience and vision he is the best person to serve as the next governor of Illinois, and I believe that JB’s supporters and his organization make him the candidate who can beat Bruce Rauner in the upcoming general election. I look forward to working with JB to fight for working-class, Democratic values, and I am fully committed to helping elect JB Pritzker to be Illinois’ next governor.”

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In The News: JB Pritzker Picks Juliana Stratton for Lieutenant Governor

Chicago, IL — Yesterday, JB Pritzker announced his pick for lieutenant governor, State Representative Juliana Stratton. Throughout her career, Rep. Stratton has been a powerful voice for Illinois working families on the South Side of Chicago and across the state. News stories noted her long history of fighting for criminal justice reform, a woman’s right to choose, and economic justice. Here’s what they’re saying:

From WBBM:

Representative Juliana Stratton would be the first African American chosen by a major party for this slot. As CBS 2’s Roseanne Tellez reports, she’s considered a strong choice.

J.B. Pritzker called it one of the most important and easiest decisions of the campaign.

“Juliana engenders respect and admiration as a tireless advocate for those who’ve been left out and those who have been left behind,” Pritzker said.

WATCH:

From WMAQ:

“Juliana doesn’t back down from a tough fight. That’s why I need her at my side in this election,” said Pritzker.

Stratton’s daughters helped Pritzker introduce her to a cheering crowd, where Stratton talked up her work on criminal justice reform and her support for women’s access to abortion and for a black community that has been “ignored and suffered decades of disinvestment.” She also criticized Rauner for a years-long state budget impasse that led to big cuts to social services and other programs.

WATCH:

From WLS:

With enthusiastic supporters cheering him on, Pritzker took the next step in his battle to become Illinois’ next governor. He has been relentless in his attacks on Rauner, and by adding Stratton to the ticket, signaled that will now continue two-fold.

“The damage has been done by Bruce Rauner, the problem is Bruce Rauner, the solution, is J.B. Pritzker,” said Stratton.

WATCH:

From WTTW:

Democratic candidate for governor J.B. Pritzker has selected a running mate. She is freshman South Side state Rep. Juliana Stratton. Pritzker on Thursday introduced his candidate for lieutenant governor at a rally. Stratton has a long career as a violence mediator and formerly served as executive director of the Cook County Justice Advisory Council.

“Politicians in Springfield and Washington come in with short-term fixes and Band-Aids,” Stratton said. “We don’t need more Band-Aids. We need real solutions, and that is what J.B. and I will provide.”

WATCH:

From WAND:

JB Pritzker, Democratic candidate for governor announced Thursday, Representative Juliana Stratton, D-Chicago, would be his running mate.

“Juliana Stratton is one of our state’s fiercest leaders, and I couldn’t be prouder to have her standing with me in this campaign and as our next lieutenant governor. Tackling the many challenges that face our state won’t be easy, but Juliana doesn’t back down from a tough fight.

WATCH:

From WEEK:

In a statement Representative Stratton said, “I am so excited to be a part of this campaign and to move our state forward with JB Pritzker as our next governor.”

Stratton is the first woman on any Democratic gubernatorial ticket from Illinois.

WATCH:

From WREX:

One candidate has already picked his running mate. JB Pritzker tapped State Representative Juliana Stratton of Chicago as his running mate. The billionaire businessman says Stratton has taken on Republican governor Bruce Rauner and will fight for middle and working-class families statewide. 

From the Associated Press, Pritzker Chooses Rep. Juliana Stratton as 2018 Running Mate:

Democratic candidate for Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker named state Rep. Juliana Stratton to be his 2018 running mate Thursday, calling the Chicago attorney a fighter who “hasn’t been shy about standing up” to Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and President Donald Trump.

Stratton’s daughters helped Pritzker introduce her to a cheering crowd, where Stratton talked up her work on criminal justice reform and her support for women’s access to abortion and for a black community that has been “ignored and suffered decades of disinvestment.” She also criticized Rauner for a years-long state budget impasse that led to big cuts to social services and other programs.

From the Chicago Sun-Times, Pritzker to run with Stratton: Not ‘shy about standing up’ to Rauner:

Pritzker made the announcement in a video released by his campaign, and the two Democrats appeared at a rally at Sherwood Park on Thursday morning.

There, Pritzker championed Stratton, a first-time legislator, as a “person of genuine empathy,” who isn’t “shy about standing up to Bruce Rauner or Donald Trump.”

Stratton, who is African-American and was elected with the help of President Barack Obama, called herself a problem solver who can bring people together. She lamented the struggles of Chicago’s minority communities.

From the Chicago Defender, JB Pritker Taps State Rep. Juliana Stratton As Running Mate:

As an attorney and resident of Bronzeville, Stratton is a favorite among her constituents making herself accessible at community meetings and rolling her sleeves up as a freshman state legislator in this latest budget crisis.

It is no wonder why the Pritzker camp would consider Stratton as a viable running mate for the governor’s race. She is highly supported by two of the biggest labor unions in the state, SEIU and CTU (Chicago Teachers Union). But most importantly, it sets a historical tone of her becoming the first African-American woman as a running mate in an Illinois gubernatorial race. It also helps adds creditability to J.B. Pritzker’s presence in the African-American community and connects him to the real interests that concern voters.

From the Chicago Tribune, Stratton Brings Diversity to Pritzker Campaign:

During an event to tout her joining Prtizker’s campaign, Stratton, an African-American woman and first-term lawmaker, said that neglected concerns in the black community would be addressed.

“So many of our communities of color, especially the black community, are not being heard,” Stratton said at a campaign event at Sherwood Park in Englewood.

At Thursday’s announcement, Pritzker noted Stratton’s background as director of the Center for Public Safety and Justice at the University of Illinois at Chicago in touting her efforts to improve the criminal justice system and at trying to bring trust between law enforcement and local communities.

“People talk a lot these days about the things that divide us instead of the things that unite us,” Pritzker said.

From WTAX:

“For me, it is an opportunity to do what I have been doing in public service. I started doing work as a local school council chair, doing work in my community, and then I moved to (being a) state representative,” Stratton told WTAX News as she prepared to march in the State Fair Twilight Parade. “Now this is a way to broaden the impact and, hopefully, help as J.B. helps to turn the state around from the damage done by Gov. (Bruce) Rauner.”

From Peoria Public Radio:

At a rally in Chicago – Stratton – who’s black – said her community has been on the wrong side of the criminal justice system for too long.

STRATTON: We have been ignored and suffered decades of disinvestment.

Stratton says she wants to ban pre-schools from expelling children and ban police booking stations in schools.

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Pritzker wins key Dem nod for gov, vows victory ‘up and down’ ticket

JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton March in Springfield Twilight Parade

Springfield, IL — Today, JB Pritzker and his running mate, State Representative Juliana Stratton, marched in the Illinois State Fair’s annual kickoff event, the Twilight Parade.

The parade comes during a momentous week for JB Pritzker, who yesterday unveiled his plan to expand access to early childhood education, and today announced Juliana Stratton as his running mate for lieutenant governor. Representative Stratton has been a fighter for Illinois working families her entire career and a fierce voice standing up to Bruce Rauner in Springfield. She brings to the ticket a passion for criminal justice reform, and a lifelong commitment to public service.

“I’m honored to be marching in the Twilight Parade today with my newly announced running mate, Representative Juliana Stratton,” said JB Pritzker. “I couldn’t be happier to have her as my partner as we take on Bruce Rauner in this campaign and fight for working families here in Springfield and across the state. Together, we will get Illinois back on track after Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Meet Juliana Stratton: JB Pritzker’s Lieutenant Governor Pick

Stratton Brings Experience in Criminal Justice Reform and Children’s Advocacy

Chicago, IL — Today, JB Pritzker proudly announced State Rep. Juliana Stratton as his running mate in the fight against Bruce Rauner. As lieutenant governor, Stratton will bring her experience as a judge, criminal justice advocate, state representative, and mediator to get things done for the people of Illinois.

Representative Stratton has been serving the public, solving problems, and fighting for what’s right throughout her entire career. As the state representative of the 5th district, Stratton fought to raise the minimum wage and protect a woman’s right to choose. She brings law enforcement and our communities together as the Director of the Center for Public Safety and Justice at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Stratton has been a fierce advocate for Illinois children as founding board member of the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. She graduated with a B.S. from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a J.D. from DePaul University. She is proud to have been a delegate at the Illinois Women’s Institute for Leadership. Stratton was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago and currently resides in Bronzeville.

“Juliana Stratton is one of our state’s fiercest leaders, and I couldn’t be prouder to have her standing with me in this campaign and as our next lieutenant governor,” said JB Pritzker. “Tackling the many challenges that face our state won’t be easy, but Juliana doesn’t back down from a tough fight. Juliana has the passion, commitment, and grit to defeat Bruce Rauner and get things done for the people of Illinois as our next lieutenant governor.”

“I am so excited be a part of this campaign and to move our state forward with JB Pritzker as our next governor,” said State Rep. Juliana Stratton. “I haven’t been in Springfield for very long, but I’ve been there long enough to know that Bruce Rauner is not providing the leadership we need. As governor, JB will bring people together, listen to the wisdom in our communities, and most importantly get results. Together, we’re going to get Illinois back on track.”

Meet Juliana Stratton:

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Pritzker to run with Stratton: Not ‘shy about standing up’ to Rauner

Chicago Tribune: Stratton brings diversity to Pritzker campaign

JB Pritzker Releases Five-Point Plan for Early Childhood Education

Chicago, IL — Today, in a speech at the Young Achievers Academy, JB Pritzker released his five-point plan to expand early childhood education in Illinois. JB was joined by Zuli Turner, the President of the Young Achievers Academy and a leading provider of early childhood educational services on the South Side of Chicago. Read the full plan here.

JB’s proposal outlines what he will do as governor to build a comprehensive birth-to-five educational system so every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. The plan is an extension of JB’s lifelong passion and over twenty years of advocacy for increasing access to high-quality early education:

  1. Ensure every child participates in kindergarten by lowering the compulsory school age from 6 to 5 years old.
  2. Put Illinois on a path towards universal preschool for 3 and 4-year-olds, starting with the children who would benefit the most.
  3. Increase access to the Child Care Assistance Program by raising income eligibility to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL) and creating an exit ramp at 300% of the FPL, which will allow working parents to increase their wages without losing assistance.
  4. Expand birth-to-three services and create a new ‘Family Engagement Portal’ that will provide every new and expecting parent with comprehensive information about child development.
  5. Invest in adding more teachers and classrooms so we can build capacity to make a universal early childhood system a reality.

“I’ve spent my whole life fighting for early childhood education, and that won’t stop when I get to Springfield,” said JB Pritzker. “That’s why I’m so grateful to be here at Young Achievers Academy. I’m grateful to be in a room full of people I know share a common goal — we want to set our children up for success and give them the tools they need to build better lives. I am proposing this plan because I believe there is no greater investment we can make in our children and our middle-class families than early childhood education.”

“When we invest in child care, we give parents the tools they need to enter and remain in the workforce – something JB understands,” said Zuli Turner. “When JB is governor, we will have a partner in Springfield who will work with us to rebuild and strengthen our early childhood education infrastructure so that more children and families have the chance to reach their full potential.”

Judith Walker Kendrick, former Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Human Services and child care advocate said, “Using the two-generation lens, JB lays out a blueprint for the future of early childhood education in Illinois that gives generations of children and families the tools they need to build better lives and strengthen communities.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY
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JB Pritzker Rallies with South and West Side Community Leaders

And Over 500 Supporters Attend Rally for JB

Chicago, IL — This evening, JB Pritzker held a rally at the JLM Life Center on the West Side of Chicago. JB was joined by community leaders and over 500 residents from the South and West Sides of Chicago.

JB discussed important issues impacting the African-American community and outlined his plans to expand access to capital for small businesses, ensure equitable school funding for every child in Illinois, increase access to affordable healthcare, and root out racism in the criminal justice system. He was joined by the Business Leadership Council, Chicago City Treasurer Kurt Summers, and Aldermen Pat Dowell, Jason Ervin, Walter Burnett, Emma Mitts, Michael Scott Jr., and Chris Taliaferro.

“I’ve tried to never be silent in the face of injustice, and I’m not about to be silent now,” said JB Pritzker. “Let’s fight to give every child in Illinois the best education. Let’s fight for an Illinois economy that lifts up all of our communities. Let’s work together and create real prosperity by building small businesses and expanding access to capital and mentorship. Let’s fight for healthcare, because healthcare is a right, not a privilege. And let’s fight for equal treatment under the law for every person in this state. I will make sure everyone’s voice is heard in Springfield. And I will fight for you every single day as your governor.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY
 
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JB Pritzker Visits Metropolitan Family Services

After Over $1.6 Million In Funding Disappears, Damage is Done By Rauner’s Budget Crisis

Chicago, IL — Today, JB Pritzker visited Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) in Chicago to learn about the critical services they provide and the impact of Bruce Rauner’s 736-day manufactured budget crisis. MFS has been working to strengthen families and empower Chicagoland communities to reach their full potential since 1857. MFS programs span from outpatient mental health care and housing for adults with mental illness to pre-natal programs and clinical and academic support services for youth who have been in the juvenile justice system.

After the state suffered for 736 days without a budget under Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership, the damage is done to agencies like MFS. MFS saw over $1.6 million in state funding disappear because of the lack of a state budget, which forced them to close several programs and affected more than 800 clients.

“For 160 years, Metropolitan Family Services has been empowering Illinois families to reach their full potential through the vital work of their seven community centers,” said JB Pritzker. “This social service agency continues to give families the tools they need to build better lives, but under Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership those tools have been decimated. Over $1.6 million in funding was slashed and over 800 clients were affected. Organizations like Metropolitan Family Services deserve a partner in Springfield who stands with them. It will take years to clean up the devastation caused by Rauner’s failure to lead, and after throwing our state into a years-long crisis, the damage is done.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

Rockford Register Star: Pritzker Touts Record of Good Works, Job Creation

…J.B. Pritzker is involved in numerous causes, including “No Kids Hungry,” where he greatly expanded a federally funded school breakfast program for poor children. “We expanded the program to 55,000 more children, and then the state legislature unanimously passed a bill to extend it beyond that,” Pritzker said. “Gov. (Bruce) Rauner signed it.”

He has also been deeply involved in efforts to expand early childhood education from birth to three years old, “because studies show that in low income areas, kids are only exposed to 3 million words, while kids in slightly higher income brackets hear 30 million words. The difference is in brain development, how your synapses develop,” he said.

Pritzker created a business incubator called 1871, named for Chicago’s remarkable growth and innovations in the wake of the Chicago Fire of 1871.

“We have the things entrepreneurs need to get a start. They need capital, technical assistance and mentorship,” he said. The nonprofit has created 7,000 jobs in Illinois, he said.

According to 1871′s website: “Founded in 2012, 1871 was created to support Chicago’s digital startup community. Since that time, it has become the hub for the city’s thriving technology and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Today 1871 is the home of more than 400 early-stage, high-growth digital startups.” It takes up 150,000 square feet of space on the 12th and 13th floors of the Merchandise Mart.

Pritzker says that as governor, he would use the 1871 model to grow Illinois’ economy because “two-thirds of the new jobs come from small businesses.”

He prefers a graduated income tax to the current flat tax of 4.95 percent on individuals and 7 percent on corporations.

“The wealthy people and corporations need to pay a higher rate than those who are in the middle class or those striving to get to the middle class,” he said. To change the income tax would take a constitutional amendment. “We also have spaghetti for a tax code. We’ve got to make it simpler to implement. Businesses say this state makes it very hard to follow our tax code,” Pritzker said.

On health care, Pritzker has announced a plan to allow everyone the right to buy into the Medicaid program, at cost.

He also talked about education, which he said is key to job creation. “Vocational education has to come back into the high schools,” because “a lot of kids don’t go to college.” Pritzker also supports apprenticeship programs and community colleges. He has the backing of 17 unions and the AFL-CIO, and many of those unions have apprenticeship programs.

“The jobs we have today require frequent changes in job training skills. We need lifelong learning, and our community colleges are the bulwark of that.”

At the K-12 level, Pritzker supports SB1, which the governor vetoed. He’s angered that the state is not living up to the Constitution, which says, “The State has the primary responsibility for financing the system of public education,” meaning more than 50 percent.

“Our state funding is at 26 percent; the average in the other states is 46 percent. We rank 50th among the states in state funding for our public schools.”

Read the full story HERE.

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Rockford Register Star: Pritzker touts record of good works, job creation

Pritzker criticizes DPI, plans to open regional offices to help down-ballot candidates

JB Pritzker Campaign Releases New TV Ad: “Enough”

New Ad Highlights JB’s Commitment to Fighting for Working Families

Chicago, IL — Today, the JB Pritzker for Governor campaign released a new TV ad, “Enough.” The ad features working Illinoisans who are passionate about electing JB Pritzker and defeating Bruce Rauner next fall.

“Enough” highlights union members discussing Bruce Rauner’s attacks on working families and JB’s commitment to fighting for them in Springfield. The ad comes as labor support for JB continues to grow across the state, with recent endorsements coming from Illinois Painters District Councils, United Steelworkers, and the Illinois AFL-CIO. In total, JB has been endorsed by 17 individual unions so far.

“Working families across this state are ready for a real leader who fights for them in Springfield and that’s exactly what I’ll do as governor,” said JB Pritzker. “Together, we will defeat Bruce Rauner and end his attacks on the labor movement and working families. When I’m governor, the labor movement will once again have a seat at the table as we grow the economy, create jobs, and protect the rights that help workers thrive. I am grateful to have support from the labor movement across the state and I will always stand with working families as governor.”

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