Thursday, December 21, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – JB Pritzker released the following statement in response to Congressional Republicans passing Donald Trump’s destructive tax bill:

“Donald Trump rammed through one of the least popular and most devastating pieces of legislation in recent memory,” said JB Pritzker. “Trump’s tax bill demonstrates callous disregard for the American Dream, hiking taxes on our middle class to benefit the wealthy and corporations, leveraging our future by adding billions to the deficit, and stripping affordable healthcare from millions of families. Despite the devastation this bill will unleash on our middle class and those striving to get into the middle class, Bruce Rauner would rather cower from Trump than defend the families who need him most. Rauner has remained silent and done nothing to stand up for Illinois. It’s time for a governor ready to resist Donald Trump, stand up for working families, and take charge of this state and you can rest assured I will be in charge when I’m governor.”

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Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Rauner’s Gross Mismanagement May Have Cost Veterans Millions in Benefits Statewide

 

Chicago, IL – Thousands of Veteran benefits potentially totaling millions of dollars have lapsed after Bruce Rauner let a Department of Veterans’ Affairs hack spin out of control.

While millions of dollars in healthcare, pension, widow and burial benefits were interrupted, Bruce Rauner did little to address the hack, even praising a “rapid response” effort. This “rapid response” consisted of the entire statewide system shutting down for six weeks, forcing benefits to be administered through phone and fax. Almost six months after the hack, medical benefits for wounded veterans have plummeted by 62%, pension benefits for widows have dropped by 45%, and burial benefits have dropped by over 70%.

“Bruce Rauner’s gross mismanagement of our state government is costing veterans who bravely served our country the security and dignity they deserve,” said JB Pritzker. “Instead of taking charge and providing the leadership needed to navigate the state through this crisis, Rauner continues to evade responsibility and try to cover up the truth. Whole agencies of state government are not functioning, the lives of our nation’s heroes are on the line, and Illinoisans deserves answers from their failed governor.”

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Tuesday, December 19, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – This weekend, six Metro East lawmakers endorsed JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton during an event at IBEW Local 309. JB also moderated a panel at a women’s luncheon with over 250 women in Marion.

Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about JB’s latest Southern Illinois trip:

From KMOV:

From WSIL:

From the Belleville News-Democrat:

Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker picked up an endorsement Sunday from half a dozen current or former state legislators from the metro-east.

State Sens. James Clayborne, of Belleville, and Bill Haine, of Alton, along with state Reps. Jay Hoffman, of Swansea, LaToya Greenwood, of East St. Louis, and Katie Stuart, of Edwardsville, all Democrats, announced their backing of Pritzker. Another Democrat, Dan Beiser, of Alton, threw his support to Pritzker on the same day he announced he was stepping down as the state representative in 111th District, effective immediately.

Pritzker recently received the endorsement of U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin andTammy Duckworth, both Democrats, and has been endorsed by the Illinois AFL-CIO, and the Illinois Federation of Teachers, among other unions.

From the Illinois Business Journal:

On Sunday, six lawmakers from Metro East, all Democrats, came together to endorse the gubernatorial campaign of JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton.

Endorsements came from Senate Majority Leader James Clayborne, Assistant Senate Majority Leader Bill Haine, Rep. Jay Hoffman, Rep.Katie Stuart, and Rep. LaToya Greenwood at an event at IBEW Local 309 in Collinsville. Dan Beiser,  who announced his resignation as state representative on Sunday, was also present to show his support.

From the Southern Illinoisan:

During a campaign-stop luncheon hosted by the Southern Illinois Democratic Women on Saturday afternoon, Democratic gubernatorial hopeful J.B. Pritzker billed himself as a feminist ally and a proud member of the anti-Trump resistance.

Pritzker, a billionaire investor and entrepreneur, told a crowd of 250 people at the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 318 that he was“ready to listen … ready to resist and ready for the fight ahead.”

After his speech, Pritzker moderated a panel discussion featuring female leaders.

His running-mate, Juliana Stratton, state representative of the 5th District, noted in her introductory remarks that Pritzker was the first candidate in the race to choose a woman for the lieutenant governor position.

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Monday, December 18, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Over 250 women attended a downstate women’s lunch and panel discussion with JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton on Saturday. JB moderated the panel of four women, including Juliana, at a packed hall at Operating Engineers Local 318 in Marion.

Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about the downstate women’s lunch:

From WSIL:

From the front page of The Southern Illinoisan:

At campaign stop, Pritzker tells Southern Illinois Democratic Women he’s ‘ready to resist’

During a campaign-stop luncheon hosted by the Southern Illinois Democratic Women on Saturday afternoon, Democratic gubernatorial hopeful J.B. Pritzker billed himself as a feminist ally and a proud member of the anti-Trump resistance.

Pritzker, a billionaire investor and entrepreneur, told a crowd of 250 people at the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 318 that he was “ready to listen … ready to resist and ready for the fight ahead.”

After his speech, Pritzker moderated a panel discussion featuring female leaders.

His running-mate, Juliana Stratton, state representative of the 5th District, noted in her introductory remarks that Pritzker was the first candidate in the race to choose a woman for the lieutenant governor position.

“This is a partnership, and together, we’re going to put Springfield back on the side of women and families,” she said. […]

Pritzker said his involvement in Democratic politics started with his mother, who instilled in him a passion for social and economic justice activism.

“One of my very first memories, in fact, as a little kid was getting dragged around by my mother to knock on doors for Democratic candidates,” Pritzker said. “… My mother taught me how to fight for what I care about, and how to resist — my mother did that.”

He said central and Southern Illinois have suffered under Gov. Bruce Rauner with the shuttering of social service programs, and went on to sketch out the basic aspects of his platform, highlighting a need for affordable health care, universal preschool and child care, affordable college education and paid family leave.

Pritzker said public officials must do less talking and more listening, particularly to women.

“I need your advice on the challenges that we face and how we move forward. I need the help of women of color, who have been resisting for generations. Together, we will keep up this fight at a grassroots level, keep our momentum going and channel our energy into victory in 2018, and then, after we win in 2018, we are gonna go beat that misogynist in the White House!” he said.

Next, Pritzker moderated a panel featuring the founder of Action Illinois and co-founder of Southern Illinois Democratic Women Jennifer Camille Lee; Pamela Smoot, clinical assistant professor in Africana Studies and coordinator of recruitment, retention and outreach at the College of Liberal Arts at Southern Illinois University; Stephanie Fortado, a labor activist and lecturer at University of Illinois’ labor education program; and Stratton, a first-term lawmaker.

Read the full article HERE.

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Sunday, December 17, 2017

 

Collinsville, IL — Today, JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton were endorsed by Senate Majority Leader James Clayborne, Assistant Senate Majority Leader Bill Haine, Representative Jay Hoffman, Representative Dan Beiser, Representative Katie Stuart, and Representative LaToya Greenwood at an event at IBEW Local 309 in Collinsville. The six endorsements come as support for JB and Juliana’s statewide, grassroots campaign continues to grow with endorsements coming from Senators Durbin and Duckworth, the Illinois AFL-CIO, the Illinois Federation of Teachers, and over 30 individual unions.

“I am honored to accept the endorsements of true leaders in Metro East who show up and fight for working families every day,” said JB Pritzker. “We face some enormous challenges in this state, but in traveling across Illinois, I see families ready to unite and move forward. From East St. Louis to Chicago, from union workers to small business owners, from students to seniors, we are ready to come together and defeat Bruce Rauner. We’re organizing to win in every county. We’re going to elect Democrats at every level. We’re going to come together as Illinoisans and get our state back on track.”

“It’s time we had a leader in Springfield who will stand up for working families in every corner of Illinois,” said Senate Majority Leader James Clayborne. “That’s why I’m supporting JB Pritzker for governor. With JB in the governor’s mansion, I know I’ll have a partner who will help reverse Bruce Rauner’s systemic disinvestment in communities like East St. Louis. He will be a leader for our entrepreneurs and small businesses and work to expand economic opportunity across the state. JB is a champion for all Illinoisans, and I look forward to standing with him to clean up Bruce Rauner’s mess and move our state forward.”

“I am pleased to endorse JB Pritzker for governor today,”said Assistant Senate Majority Leader Bill Haine. “JB has a proven track record of thinking big and getting things done for working families in Illinois. He’s the only candidate in this race with comprehensive policy plans to create jobs, build infrastructure, and invest in education throughout our state. I’m confident that JB will bring real leadership and put Springfield back on the side of working families.”

“JB Pritzker’s record of creating good-paying jobs and fighting for investments in education make him the right choice for governor and I’m proud to endorse him today,” said State Representative LaToya Greenwood. “With JB in Springfield, I know he will stand up for every Illinoisan and guarantee every community has the investments it needs to succeed. It will take years to fix the damage done by Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership, but with JB’s record of getting big things done, I’m confident he’s up to the task.”

 

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Saturday, December 16, 2017

JB and Juliana Make Stops in Newton, Marion, Vienna

 

Vienna, IL – Today, JB Pritzker and State Representative Juliana Stratton returned to Southern Illinois with stops in Newton, Marion, and Vienna. Along the way, they discussed their plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families by creating jobs, expanding healthcare, and investing in education.

Their first stop was a breakfast with Jasper County Democrats in Newton:

They then stopped at the Operating Engineers 318 Local in Marion for a women’s lunch and panel discussion:

For the last stop of the day, they traveled to Vienna for a BBQ dinner with Johnson County Democrats:

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Friday, December 15, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Today, JB for Governor released a new digital ad, “I Will Be In Charge,” highlighting Bruce Rauner’s excuses for his failed leadership, and JB’s commitment to taking charge as the next governor of Illinois.

WATCH: “I Will Be In Charge”

“Bruce Rauner has done nothing but create crisis and destruction for Illinois’ working families while he’s been in charge,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “Illinoisans deserve a governor in Springfield who will actually lead the state, stand up to Donald Trump, and get real results for Illinois families. Unlike Bruce Rauner, when JB Pritzker is governor, he will be in charge.”

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Friday, December 15, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Today, on the final day of the Affordable Care Act enrollment period, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Despite Donald Trump cutting the ACA enrollment period in half and slashing advertising by 90%, sign ups have surged throughout our state and our country,” said JB Pritzker. “While Illinois families took a clear stand against Donald Trump’s assault on their healthcare, Bruce Rauner was nowhere to be found. Illinoisans deserve a governor who will stand with them, defend this state against Trump’s harmful agenda, and help them get quality, affordable healthcare. That’s what I’ve done throughout this campaign, and that is exactly what I will do as the next governor of Illinois.”

Read about JB’s efforts to promote healthcare.gov HERE.

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Thursday, December 14, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – In response to the FCC voting today to repeal net neutrality, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Net neutrality is vital to free expression, online innovation, and public safety and today’s vote is a direct attack on those values,” said JB Pritzker. “For the past decade, I’ve worked to make our state a hub for technology innovation, helping to create thousands of good-paying jobs in Illinois. Today’s vote jeopardizes that work and undermines not just the tech community, but all of our families who rely on an open and free internet. We need a leader in Springfield who will protect Illinois from Donald Trump’s FCC, not stay silent as he attacks the jobs, entrepreneurship, and basic democratic principles that net neutrality fosters. I have a record of being that leader and I promise to bring that passion to the governor’s office.”

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Thursday, December 14, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Following a tragic new report on 13 Legionnaires’ disease deaths in Illinois Veterans’ homes, JB Pritzker called for an independent investigation into Bruce Rauner’s failure to prevent the deaths of our nation’s heroes.

Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about JB’s calls for transparency and accountability on the Legionnaires crisis:

From WMAQ:

From WBBM:

From KHQA:

From WMBD:

From WBEZ:

From WCIA:

From CLTV:

From WLS-AM: Pritzker blaming Rauner for Legionnaires’ deaths at Quincy:

Democrat Illinois gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker is blaming Governor Rauner for 13 Legionnaires’ disease deaths at the Quincy Veterans home.

Pritzker’s calling for new places to be found for the Quincy veterans to live and an outside independent investigation of the deaths, saying “This is incompetence. It’s gross mis-management. This is what happens when a governor refuses to take charge and accept responsibility. This is what failure looks like.”

From State Journal-Register: Governor candidates want action on Legionnaire’s outbreak at veterans home:

Democrat J.B. Pritzker held a news conference in Chicago where he called for an independent investigation into problems at the facility and whether the Rauner administration has appropriately addressed them.

“The obligation we have to these heroes and their families is sacred, and to have that obligation so thoroughly neglected is an unconscionable moral failing,” Pritzker said in a statement that accompanied the news conference. “These are real lives lost and families destroyed because of the failures at the highest levels of our state government. When a governor does not take charge, people die.”

Pritzker said veterans should be moved out of the Quincy facility for their safety and work should be completed as soon as possible on a new veterans facility in Chicago. Construction of the Chicago home was delayed because of the state’s budget problems.

From NBC 5 Chicago: Governor Rauner Under Fire for Deaths at Quincy Veteran’s Home:

Governor Bruce Rauner is under fire Wednesday as a new investigation reveals the details of the deaths of 13 people at a veteran’s home in downstate Quincy.

Since 2015, 13 people have died from Legionnaires’ disease, according to a report published by WBEZ this week. According to the report, the outbreaks were caused by deteriorating conditions at the home, and 11 families are suing the state of Illinois for negligence in connection with the outbreaks.

Now, with Rauner’s administration under fire for his handling of the situation, several Illinois gubernatorial candidates, including Democratic frontrunner J.B. Pritzker, are calling for an investigation.

“The obligation we have to these heroes and their families is sacred, and to have that obligation so thoroughly neglected is an unconscionable moral failing,” he said. “When a governor does not take charge, people die.”

From WICS: Families sue the state for negligence after 13 deaths in Quincy Veterans’ Homes:

11 families of 11 different veterans killed by the disease are suing the state for negligence.

“I’m appalled,” said JB Pritzker, Democratic gubernatorial candidate. “By how these veterans and their families have been treated.”

Some Democrats are blaming Governor Rauner, including Pritzker who described one veteran in a press conference.

“[He] survived over a year in a Nazi Camp only to die of Legionnaires’ disease right here in Illinois at the Illinois Veterans’ Home.”

From KHQA: Senator to file audit in wake of IL Vets Home deaths; 11 families suing state:

Democratic candidate for IL Governor JB Pritzker stated the following on Twitter:

The obligation we have to our Veterans and their families is sacred, and to have that obligation so thoroughly neglected is an unconscionable moral failing. http://interactive.wbez.org/legionnaires/

It’s time for an independent investigation into @BruceRauner’s failure to prevent the deaths of our nation’s heroes.

These heroes served us, they defended us, they risked their lives for us. For them to come home expecting our support and care, and instead lose their lives to a preventable disease is appalling.

These are real lives lost and families destroyed because of failures at the highest levels of our state government.

When a governor does not take charge, people die. @BruceRauner must be held accountable for this tragic failure of leadership.

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Thursday, December 14, 2017

Pritzker Campaign to FOIA Documents Related to Fatal Legionnaires Outbreak

 

Chicago, IL – Today, the Pritzker campaign announced that it will submit Freedom of Information Act requests to Governor Rauner’s office to seek details surrounding Rauner’s fatal mishandling of Legionnaires’ disease at the Quincy Veterans’ Home. JB Pritzker is also calling on the Rauner Administration to release all communications responsive to the FOIA request.

The FOIA requests will seek email correspondence between the Governor’s office, Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that reference the disease. It will also seek the public release of the $5 million contract to upgrade the Quincy facility’s water system, including the metrics required to show its successful completion, and all DVA and CDC reports, protocols and evaluations relating to the multiple outbreaks.

“While an independent investigation must be launched, Illinois families and those who lost loved ones deserve immediate answers and transparency from their governor on his mishandling of the Legionnaires outbreak in Quincy,” said JB Pritzker. “It shouldn’t take a FOIA request to get answers for this unconscionable negligence, so I’m calling on Bruce Rauner to immediately release all requested communication about the Legionnaires outbreak. Despite Rauner’s attempts to minimize the severity of this crisis, brave heroes lost their lives year after year and it is time for those responsible to be held accountable.”

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Following a tragic new report on Legionnaires’ disease deaths in Illinois Veterans’ homes, JB Pritzker called for an independent investigation into Bruce Rauner’s failure to prevent the deaths of our nation’s heroes.

At a press conference in front of the Thompson Center with Alderman Gilbert Villegas and members of the Chicago City Council’s Veterans Caucus, JB outlined three actions that must be taken immediately to begin to remedy the crisis and protect our Veterans. An independent investigator must be appointed to investigate the Legionnaires’ crisis and audit existing contracts; in consultation with their families, Veterans should be relocated from the Quincy Veterans’ home to keep them safe; and the construction of the new Chicago Veterans’ home that was stalled by Bruce Rauner’s budget crisis should be expedited and opened immediately.

“The obligation we have to these heroes and their families is sacred, and to have that obligation so thoroughly neglected is an unconscionable moral failing,” said JB Pritzker. “They served us, they defended us, they risked their lives for us. For them to come home expecting our support and care, and instead lose their lives to a preventable disease is appalling. These are real lives lost and families destroyed because of failures at the highest levels of our state government. When a governor does not take charge, people die. Bruce Rauner must be held accountable for this tragic failure of leadership.”

Alderman Gilbert Villegas said, “Legionnaires’ disease is totally and completely treatable, and it’s found in places like prisons and third world countries, but here we are talking about a Veterans’ Home in Illinois. Governor Rauner should be ashamed. Right here in Chicago, a Veterans’ Home has been sitting unfinished the entire time Bruce Rauner has been governor. Today, I am calling on Bruce Rauner to step up and do whatever it takes to serve our Veterans just like they have served him and all of us. Never allow another Veteran to die of Legionnaires. Never allow another vital building to go half finished. Governor Rauner, do what is right and serve our Veterans, just like they served us—you’re in charge.”

In support of these efforts, Veteran and Secretary of State Jesse White said, “There needs to be an investigation into the issues surrounding the Legionnaires disease outbreak in Quincy Veterans’ home and I urge the facility to be shut down until the source of the outbreak is known. As a Veteran, I find it especially frustrating that people who served our country should have to deal with this outrageous situation.”

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker released the following statement on the tragic new report on Legionnaires’ disease deaths in Illinois Veterans’ homes:

“Illinois veterans, who bravely served this country overseas are dying in our veterans’ homes and Bruce Rauner is failing to fight for them,” said JB Pritzker. “This is unconscionable negligence that has already taken the lives of 13 of our nation’s heroes. Our veterans should be living in dignity and instead they are losing their lives because of Bruce Rauner’s incompetence and inability to effectively lead our state. My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost their loved ones to this tragedy. You deserved better and our state deserves a real leader.”

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Tuesday, December 12, 2017

 

Evanston, IL – Today, at an event in Evanston, Firefighters Local 742 endorsed JB Pritzker for Governor. The Evanston Firefighters join the Illinois AFL-CIO, the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois, and over 30 individual unions in endorsing JB’s campaign.

“I am so proud to receive the endorsement of the hardworking and brave firefighters in Evanston,” said JB Pritzker. “Our firefighters 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 manufactured a 736-day budget crisis and his special interest agenda is a direct attack on working families. Our firefighters deserve a governor who stands with them and I will always work to protect the right to collectively bargain, oppose Right to Work, and fight for safe working conditions. 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.”

Billy Lynch, Evanston Firefighters Local 742 President said, “On behalf of the professional firefighters and paramedics in Evanston, we are proud to join the 15,000 Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois members to endorse JB Pritzker for Governor.  JB is committed to growing our local economies by investing in our state and supporting the men and women who provide public safety services to the citizens of Illinois.  As Governor, we know he’ll fight for members of the middle class and those working their way into it.”

Pat Devaney, Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois President added, “Unlike Bruce Rauner, JB respects the hard work professional firefighters and paramedic do each day in our state.  While Rauner has attacked workers’ rights, including protections for injured firefighters, JB believes in creating an environment where the state and its local governments have the resources necessary to provide essential services for people in need.  We’re confident that JB, along with his running mate Juliana Stratton, will put working families first and put Illinois back on track.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Tuesday, December 12, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – On Monday, JB Pritzker traveled across central and northern Illinois, meeting with voters and sharing his vision for the state. Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about JB’s latest stops across the state.

EAST PEORIA

JB began the day at a labor breakfast hosted by Carpenters’ Local 273:

PEORIA

JB then toured healthcare provider Advanced Medical Transport and discussed plans to expand healthcare and address the opioid crisis:

From WMBD:

WATCH:

From WEEK:

WATCH:

From Peoria Public Radio: JB Pritzker Visits AMT in Peoria, Touts Plan to Tackle Opioid Crisis:

On Mon., the employees at Advanced Medical Transport also had the ear of Democratic gubernatorial candidate JB Pritzker, who was promoting his plan to combat the opioid crisis.

AMT Paramedic Brown told Pritzker that he’s seen the epidemic’s emotional toll on his co-workers and on the community. […]

“This is about saving lives, and it means investing in the safety net, investing in those services across the state that have been so vastly underfunded, particularly when you have no budget.”

Pritzker blamed Gov. Bruce Rauner for underfunding social services, like mental health and rehabilitation providers, during during the two-year budget impasse.

A-M-T reports that between January and November, the company has seen 474 more overdoses than that period last year. That’s a 74-percent increase.

From WMBD: Saving lives in the stacks — J.B. Pritzker visits Peoria:

During a visit to Advanced Medical Transport Monday Democratic Gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker learned that training is increasingly needed in Illinois. AMT has seen a 74% increase in the number of overdoses this year.

Pritzker believes reducing overdose deaths in Illinois begins with education and helping those dealing with drug addiction.

Pritzker said, “You’ve got to start at the beginning where people get addicted.” He adds, “By fully funding our safety net, making sure that we are providing those mental health services, that we are catching people who would otherwise self treat and instead get them into the mental health system.”

KEWANEE

Later, JB met with the Henry County Democrats at American Legion in Kewanee:

From Kewanee Star Courier: Pritzker makes Kewanee stop:

“I decided to run,” Pritzker said, “because I feel like everything we believe in is under siege.”

Pritzker, a venture capitalists and philanthropist, covered several issues in his discussion, including his support of universal health care, improved education and job creation. He said Rauner had made the state’s fiscal and political environment worse since he became governor, and his plans to gut social service programs would only add to the state’s downward spiral.

“I think it’s time to stand up and fight,” he said.

Pritzker said his experience in the private sector and with non-profits gives him the tools needed to bring Illinois back to stability. He said he would concentrate on helping small businesses, through reduced regulations and tapping into federal loan programs.

He said the most impactful way that government could help residents is to reinvest in the state’s failing infrastructure.

“That’s how we grow businesses in this state,” he said, noting that the state has not had a capital bill in the last decade.

From Regional Daily News: JB Pritzker visits Kewanee:

J.B. Pritzker came to the American Legion in Kewanee on Monday, December 11^th. Mr. Pritzker talked about what he would like to do as the Governor of Illinois. Some of his plans include Healthcare, School Breakfast for at risk children, start more small businesses, higher minimum wage, and statewide broadband internet. […]

Overall, J.B. Pritzker came off more as a person first than a politician. Currently, Mr. Pritzker is one of five candidates that are running for the democratic party in the state of Illinois.

MARSEILLES

JB then spoke with voters from LaSalle, Putman, and Bureau Counties at Laborers’ Local 393 in Marseilles:

DEKALB

Finally, JB wrapped up the day with a meet and greet at the DeKalb County Democrats Office:

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Saturday, December 9, 2017

Largest Public-Sector Union, Both U.S. Senators from Illinois Make Endorsement in Democratic Primary

 

Chicago, IL – The Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) and U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth endorsed JB Pritzker for governor this past week. They join Secretary of State Jesse White, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Treasurer Mike Frerichs, the Illinois AFL-CIO, and over 30 individual unions in supporting JB’s campaign.

Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about the big endorsements:

ILLINOIS FEDERATION OF TEACHERS

From WFLD:

 

From WSIL:

 

From WGEM:

 

From Chicago Tribune:

J.B. Pritzker on Saturday won the backing of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, the largest public employees union to issue an endorsement so far in the Democratic governor primary.

The endorsement by the executive board of the 100,000-member union represented a further coalescing of core elements of the Democratic Party behind the candidacy of Pritzker, a billionaire heir to the Hyatt Hotel fortune and an investor and entrepreneur.

ITF President Dan Montgomery said Pritzker’s historical support for education and vow to back organized labor and a graduated income tax were important factors in the endorsement, which he said came after months of candidate interviews and questionnaire reviews.

Montgomery said that unlike Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner, who has a history of opposing organized labor, particularly teachers unions, “J.B. respects workers and wants to work together to find solutions to our state’s problems.”

“While Rauner made deep cuts and caused a crisis, J.B. believes that to increase funding for our schools and services fairly, Illinois needs a progressive income tax where the wealthy pay at a higher rate than those who can least afford it,” Montgomery said in a statement.

 

From Chicago Sun-Times:

A day after receiving endorsements from Illinois’ U.S. senators, Democratic primary front-runner J.B. Pritzker joined state Sen. Daniel Biss, D-Evanston, businessman Chris Kennedy and former CeaseFire director Tio Hardiman for their latest forum, this time focusing on women’s issues Saturday afternoon at the Chicago Temple.

The candidates squared off as Pritzker notched his latest major endorsement, this time from the 100,000-member Illinois Federation of Teachers.

 

From LCBC Radio:

Illinois Governor-hopeful JB Pritzker picked up the endorsement Saturday of the 100,000 member Illinois Federation of Teachers. In their statement, IFT says it likes his commitment to strengthening public education, respect for workers’ right, support for a progressive tax system and ability to undo the damage done by Governor Bruce Rauner.

They added that while Rauner made deep cuts and caused a crisis, JB, a Democrat, believes that to increase funding for schools and services fairly, the state needs a progressive income tax where the wealthy pay at a higher rate than those who can least afford it. Pritzker said he was proud to receive their endorsement and to support the IFT’s rights to collectively bargain and retire in dignity.

 

SENATORS DURBIN AND DUCKWORTH

 

From WMAQ:

Illinois Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker picked up two huge endorsements on Friday, as Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth both added their support to his campaign.

“I will be in charge,” Pritzker said at the campaign event. “I won’t standby mealy-mouthed.”

Pritzker, considered one of the frontrunners for the Democratic nomination to take on incumbent Governor Bruce Rauner, held an event Friday afternoon to announce the endorsements, which are the biggest ones he’s added to his campaign during the primary season.

 

From WQAD:

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth endorsed JB Pritzker for Illinois governor at a campaign event in Chicago today.

“I’m proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor because he will be a strong partner and an effective leader for our state,” Durbin said. “I’ve spoken with all the Democratic candidates and heard their visions for our state, and JB has emerged as the clear choice for governor.”

Pritzker previously received endorsements from Secretary of State Jesse White, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Treasurer Mike Frerichs and Congresswoman Cheri Bustos.

“With JB, I know I’ll have a partner in the governor’s office who will work to create good jobs, help give veterans the support and opportunity they deserve, and make sure every child gets a quality education,” Duckworth said.

 

From WICD:

 

From WGN:

 

From State Journal-Register:

“I’ve spoken with all the Democratic candidates and heard their visions for our state, and J.B. has emerged as the clear choice for governor,” Durbin said in a statement.

“J.B. has traveled across Illinois, hearing from people in Rockford and Cairo, Macomb and Danville, and everywhere in between,” Durbin added. “He has thoughtful and comprehensive policy plans on the issues that matter to Illinoisans. He has shown continued support for immigrants and the Dream Act, protecting health care for all, and creating new and good paying jobs in Illinois.”

At an event in Chicago where both senators announced their backing of Pritzker, Duckworth said that especially with Republican President Donald Trump in the White House, Illinois needs a governor who will “choose people over politics.”

She also said the state “needs a governor who is in charge and takes responsibility” for the power of his office.

GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner earlier in the week told reporters he is “not in charge,” […]

 

From Chicago Sun-Times:

“From Chicago to Cairo, J.B. has been listening and talking about how best to address the challenges facing our communities every day,” Duckworth said. “He has fought for our state and our families and now it’s time for us to fight for him.”

The move deals a blow to candidates Chris Kennedy and State Sen. Daniel Biss, who are the other top fundraisers for the March primary. […]

“We need a governor who will put behind us the tragedy of that budget crisis that hurt us all across this state,” Durbin said. “We need to stand together in this campaign.”

In his speech, Pritzker continued to rail against Rauner — mocking Rauner’s comment earlier this week that he doesn’t control the state.

“As candidates, as elected officials, of all the things we owe you, the most important thing is acknowledgement of our responsibility to you,” Prizker said. “If I’m elected, when it comes time to pass a budget I will work with every elected official in Springfield and all the concerned citizens and social service agencies that make this state run.”

 

From WMAY:

More top Democrats are lining up behind governor candidate J.B. Pritzker. At an event in Chicago, Pritzker picked up the endorsement of both of Illinois’s U.S. senators, Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth.

Pritzker has been consolidating support among top statewide officeholders in an effort to squeeze out the rest of the crowded Democratic field for governor.

 

From Illinois Public Media:

Illinois’ two Democratic U-S senators are taking sides in the primary for governor Friday. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth are both endorsing businessman J.B. Pritzker.

According to a Pritzker campaign news release, Durbin said at a news conference Friday that Pritzker “will be a strong partner and an effective leader,” and was the “clear choice” among the Democratic candidate for governor.

The same release quoted Duckworth as saying Pritzker was “ready to fight for working families” and also work to help veterans and for children’s education. […]

Meanwhile, it’s a different story on the Republican side. Four congressmen have declined to endorse incumbent Gov. Bruce Rauner. He’s being challenged from the right by state Rep. Jeanne Ives.

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Sunday, December 10, 2017

 

Galesburg, IL – Today, JB Pritzker opened a new campaign office in Niles and spoke at a Knox County Democrats dinner. During the events, JB discussed his plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families by creating jobs, expanding healthcare, and investing in education.

JB began the day opening the Niles JB for Governor campaign office. This is the seventeenth JB for Governor office opened throughout the state as the campaign continues to build a statewide, grassroots campaign.

He then headed to Galesburg to speak at a Knox County Democrats dinner about his vision for Illinois.

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Saturday, December 9, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth endorsed JB Pritzker for governor yesterday at a campaign event in Chicago. The senators join Secretary of State Jesse White, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Treasurer Mike Frerichs, the Illinois AFL-CIO and over 30 individual unions in supporting JB’s campaign.

Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about the big endorsements:

From WQAD:

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth endorsed JB Pritzker for Illinois governor at a campaign event in Chicago today.

“I’m proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor because he will be a strong partner and an effective leader for our state,” Durbin said. “I’ve spoken with all the Democratic candidates and heard their visions for our state, and JB has emerged as the clear choice for governor.”

Pritzker previously received endorsements from Secretary of State Jesse White, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Treasurer Mike Frerichs and Congresswoman Cheri Bustos.

“With JB, I know I’ll have a partner in the governor’s office who will work to create good jobs, help give veterans the support and opportunity they deserve, and make sure every child gets a quality education,” Duckworth said.

From WMAQ:

Illinois Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker picked up two huge endorsements on Friday, as Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth both added their support to his campaign.

“I will be in charge,” Pritzker said at the campaign event. “I won’t standby mealy-mouthed.”

Pritzker, considered one of the frontrunners for the Democratic nomination to take on incumbent Governor Bruce Rauner, held an event Friday afternoon to announce the endorsements, which are the biggest ones he’s added to his campaign during the primary season.

From WGN:

From WSIL:

From WICD:

From KLJB:

From WHBF:

From CLTV:

From Chicago Sun-Times:

“From Chicago to Cairo, J.B. has been listening and talking about how best to address the challenges facing our communities every day,” Duckworth said. “He has fought for our state and our families and now it’s time for us to fight for him.”

The move deals a blow to candidates Chris Kennedy and State Sen. Daniel Biss, who are the other top fundraisers for the March primary. […]

“We need a governor who will put behind us the tragedy of that budget crisis that hurt us all across this state,” Durbin said. “We need to stand together in this campaign.”

In his speech, Pritzker continued to rail against Rauner — mocking Rauner’s comment earlier this week that he doesn’t control the state.

“As candidates, as elected officials, of all the things we owe you, the most important thing is acknowledgement of our responsibility to you,” Prizker said. “If I’m elected, when it comes time to pass a budget I will work with every elected official in Springfield and all the concerned citizens and social service agencies that make this state run.”

From Crain’s Chicago Business:

In a news conference and a joint statement today, Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, both Democrats, dropped their prior neutrality and joined other pols—such as Secretary of State Jesse White, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza and state Treasurer Mike Frerichs—who earlier had endorsed Pritzker, too.

Pritzker “will be a strong partner and an effective leader,” said Durbin. “I’ve spoken with all the Democratic candidates and heard their vision for our state, and J.B. has emerged as the clear choice.”

Said Duckworth: “I know he is ready to fight for working families. . . .With J.B., I know I’ll have a partner in the governor’s office who will work to create good jobs, help give veterans the support and opportunity they deserve and make sure every child gets a quality education.” […]

And the backing is also an indication that the Pritzker bandwagon has begun to move in the polls, with neither of the other major candidates—businessman Chris Kennedy and state Sen. Daniel Biss of Evanston—believed to be making much progress.

From Chicago Tribune:

Democratic U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth endorsed J.B. Pritzker’s bid for governor on Friday in an attempt to show some party unity behind a candidate beset by rivals’ criticisms and attacks by Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner.

Appearing at a brief rally at the Theater on the Lake, Pritzker, Durbin and Duckworth frequently encouraged unity as the billionaire entrepreneur and investor continued his efforts to link Rauner’s governorship to Donald Trump’s presidency.

“Illinois is coming together with a common purpose — beating Bruce Rauner,” Pritzker said. He called Durbin and Duckworth “two of our fiercest leaders in Washington to say we are uniting as Democrats and we are ready to win.”

The three criticized the first-term governor for failing to speak about issues affecting Illinoisans in Washington, including Republican-led efforts to change the federal tax code and repeal the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare.

“While Sen. Durbin and Sen. Duckworth fight for us in Washington, Bruce Rauner is asleep at the wheel, letting Donald Trump have his way with us here in Illinois,” Pritzker said. “Together, we are united and ready for the fight.”

The endorsements were the latest in a series of high-profile statements of support for Pritzker, an heir to the Hyatt Hotel fortune. Among his supporters: all current Democratic statewide elected officials seeking re-election, the Democratic County Chairmen’s Association, the Cook County Democratic organization, the state AFL-CIO and several individual unions.

From State Journal-Register:

“I’ve spoken with all the Democratic candidates and heard their visions for our state, and J.B. has emerged as the clear choice for governor,” Durbin said in a statement.

“J.B. has traveled across Illinois, hearing from people in Rockford and Cairo, Macomb and Danville, and everywhere in between,” Durbin added. “He has thoughtful and comprehensive policy plans on the issues that matter to Illinoisans. He has shown continued support for immigrants and the Dream Act, protecting health care for all, and creating new and good paying jobs in Illinois.”

At an event in Chicago where both senators announced their backing of Pritzker, Duckworth said that especially with Republican President Donald Trump in the White House, Illinois needs a governor who will “choose people over politics.”

She also said the state “needs a governor who is in charge and takes responsibility” for the power of his office.

GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner earlier in the week told reporters he is “not in charge,” […]

From Illinois Public Media:

Illinois’ two Democratic U-S senators are taking sides in the primary for governor Friday. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth are both endorsing businessman J.B. Pritzker.

According to a Pritzker campaign news release, Durbin said at a news conference Friday that Pritzker “will be a strong partner and an effective leader,” and was the “clear choice” among the Democratic candidate for governor.

The same release quoted Duckworth as saying Pritzker was “ready to fight for working families” and also work to help veterans and for children’s education. […]

Meanwhile, it’s a different story on the Republican side. Four congressmen have declined to endorse incumbent Gov. Bruce Rauner. He’s being challenged from the right by state Rep. Jeanne Ives.

From WICS:

Democratic gubernatorial Candidate J.B Pritzker is getting a huge endorsement.

Illinois Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin both announced they are supporting Pritzker for the Democratic nomination.

The Senators said they believe Pritzker will fight for Illinois residents and be an effective leader for the state.

From Daily Kos:

On Friday, both Sens. Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth endorsed billionaire venture capitalist J.B. Pritzker. […]

There haven’t been many polls, but Pritzker is widely acknowledged as the primary frontrunner.

From WMAY:

More top Democrats are lining up behind governor candidate J.B. Pritzker. At an event in Chicago, Pritzker picked up the endorsement of both of Illinois’s U.S. senators, Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth.

Pritzker has been consolidating support among top statewide officeholders in an effort to squeeze out the rest of the crowded Democratic field for governor.

From Daily Northwestern:

U.S. Sens. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) endorsed J.B. Pritzker for governor at a Friday campaign event in Chicago.

They join other notable political figures who have endorsed Pritzker, including secretary of state Jesse White, state comptroller Susana Mendoza and state treasurer Mike Frerichs. The Illinois AFL-CIO and more than 30 independent unions have also endorsed the businessman, according to a Friday news release from Pritzker’s campaign.

“(Pritzker) has thoughtful and comprehensive policy plans on the issues that matter to Illinoisans,” Durbin said in the release. “He has shown continued support for immigrants and the Dream Act, protecting health care for all, and creating new and good paying jobs in Illinois — all things that will make Illinois stronger.”

Duckworth said in the release that she believes Pritzker (School of Law ’93) will work to create good jobs, give veterans support and opportunities and ensure equal education for children.

Saturday, December 9, 2017

Largest Public-Sector Union to Endorse Candidate for Governor

 

Chicago, IL – Today, the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) endorsed JB Pritzker for governor, which is the largest public-sector union to make an endorsement in the race. The Illinois Federation of Teachers joins 30 other individual unions along with the Illinois AFL-CIO to support JB Pritzker’s campaign.

“I’m so proud to receive the endorsement of the Illinois Federation of Teachers and the 100,000 teachers, paraprofessionals, higher education faculty and staff and public employees they represent,” said JB Pritzker. “Every single child in Illinois deserves a quality public education no matter their zip code. It’s time for a governor who works hard for our students, listens to and respects our teachers and makes fully funding public schools a priority.

“Unfortunately, Bruce Rauner has decimated public education in our state, forcing five public universities to downgrade to junk status and it’s time for new leadership in Springfield. I look forward to working with IFT members to strengthen public education and services in Illinois and ensure strong neighborhood public schools in all of our communities. I’m proud to support the labor movement and the rights of IFT members to collectively bargain and retire in dignity.”

Dan Montgomery, IFT President and a high school English teacher, said “On behalf of our Executive Board and 100,000 members across Illinois, we are proud to endorse JB Pritzker for Governor. For two decades, JB has been working to advance early childhood education, expand school breakfast programs, and fight back against bigotry and hatred. As Governor, we know he will continue standing up for our students from their first day of school through college graduation.

“Unlike Bruce Rauner, JB respects workers and wants to work together to find solutions to our state’s problems. While Rauner made deep cuts and caused a crisis, JB believes that to increase funding for our schools and services fairly, Illinois needs a progressive income tax where the wealthy pay at a higher rate than those who can least afford it. We’re confident that JB, along with his running mate Juliana Stratton, will put working families first and put Illinois back on track.”

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Friday, December 8, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – Today, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth endorsed JB Pritzker for governor at a campaign event in Chicago. The two endorsements come as support for JB Pritzker continues to grow throughout the state with endorsements from Secretary of State Jesse White, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Treasurer Mike Frerichs, the Illinois AFL-CIO, and over 30 individual unions.

As the Senior Senator from Illinois, Dick Durbin has served in the U.S. Senate since 1997, and is currently the Democratic Whip. He is a tireless advocate for our state, fighting to strengthen the economy through infrastructure funding and standing up for immigrant families and Dreamers. Senator Tammy Duckworth was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2016 after representing Illinois’ Eighth Congressional District for two terms. She is an Iraq War Veteran, a purple heart recipient, and one of the first Army women to fly combat missions in Operation Iraqi Freedom. She has been a relentless advocate for working families and Veterans during her time in public service.

“Senator Duckworth and Senator Durbin are fighting for our values every single day,” said JB Pritzker. “But they can’t do it alone. They need all of us. I’ve introduced bold plans to move our state forward and I will continue to do so throughout this campaign and as governor of this state. We’re going to have to unite and turn our energy and ideas into victories. With Senator Durbin and Senator Duckworth on our side, with over 30 individual unions and the 900,000 members of the statewide AFL-CIO, with elected leaders and issue advocates speaking out on behalf of this campaign, and with the support of hundreds of thousands of working families across this state, we are united and ready for the fight.”

“I’m proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor because he will be a strong partner and an effective leader for our state,” said Senator Durbin. “I’ve spoken with all the Democratic candidates and heard their visions for our state, and JB has emerged as the clear choice for governor. JB has traveled across Illinois, hearing from people in Rockford and Cairo, Macomb and Danville, and everywhere in between. He has thoughtful and comprehensive policy plans on the issues that matter to Illinoisans. He has shown continued support for immigrants and the Dream Act, protecting health care for all, and creating new and good paying jobs in Illinois — all things that will make Illinois stronger.”

“I’m proud to endorse JB because I know he is ready to fight for working families in Springfield,”said Senator Duckworth. “With JB, I know I’ll have a partner in the governor’s office who will work to create good jobs, help give Veterans the support and opportunity they deserve, and make sure every child gets a quality education. JB understands that pitting Illinois communities against each other is no way to govern, and I’m confident he will work for every Illinoisan as governor. I know JB can bring Democrats together to beat Bruce Rauner and win up and down the ticket, across the state.”

 

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

 

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Thursday, December 7, 2017

 

Chicago, IL – After the Trump administration announced their support of an anti-union Supreme Court case spearheaded by Bruce Rauner, Janus v. AFSCME, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Donald Trump endorsed Bruce Rauner’s lawsuit to obliterate unions and hurt working families across our state and country,” said JB Pritzker. “After failed attempts to force his special interest agenda on Illinois, Rauner is partnering with Trump to roll back worker’s rights on a national scale. This case could threaten the mere existence of public sector unions, and there is too much at stake for working families to have their governor and president working against them. As governor, I will always stand with the labor movement and fight these attempts to hurt working families.”

###

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker announced that he will participate in six media sponsored debates and forums across the state in the new year and ahead of the March 20^th primary election.

“As we enter the final months of the primary campaign, it’s important for voters across the state to hear from all the Democratic candidates about what we plan to do to repair the damage Bruce Rauner has done to the state and what our vision is to improve the lives of working families in Illinois,” said JB Pritzker. “After more than 40 forums and multi-candidate events, over 220 stops downstate and hundreds in Chicago and the suburbs, I look forward to keeping up the pace and momentum of our campaign and beating Bruce Rauner next November.”

DATE: January 23
SPONSORS: NBC5, Telemundo, Chicago Urban League, and the Union League Club of Chicago

DATE: January 30
SPONSORS: Daily Herald and Southern Illinois University Carbondale

DATE: February 21
SPONSORS: State Journal Register, WMAY, and the University of Illinois at Springfield

DATE: March 1
SPONSORS: POLITICO, WBEZ, and the University of Chicago Institute of Politics

DATE: March 2
SPONSORS: ABC7, Univision, and the League of Women Voters

DATE: March 14
SPONSOR: WTTW

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Instead, Rauner Proposed Massive Retirement Cuts

 

Chicago, IL – At a press conference today, Bruce Rauner claimed that in his career in business he “worked hard” for teachers and police officers and “made a lot of money for their retirement.”

But the truth is Bruce Rauner tried to strip those same teachers and police officers of their hard-earned retirement money. In 2015, Bruce Rauner proposed massive cuts to benefits for police officers, public-school teachers, and firefighters with “little or no input from organized labor.”

“Bruce Rauner has never ‘worked hard’ for teachers and police officers and is only interested in their benefits when it lines his own pockets,” said Pritzker Communications Director Galia Slayen. “This is a failed governor who has worked to cut benefits and undermine working families to advance his special interest agenda.”

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RAUNER’S PENSION OVERHAUL BILL PROPOSED CUTS TO POLICE, FIRE, TEACHER PENSIONS

Rauner’s Pension Overhaul Bill Proposed Cuts To Police, Fire, Teacher Pensions. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, “Gov. Bruce Rauner announced on Wednesday a massive pension overhaul bill that would cut benefits for police officers, firefighters and public teachers while saying it would save Chicago billions of dollars. Rauner said the more than 500-page pension reform bill includes changes to Chicago’s fire and police pension plans as well as to the Chicago Teachers pension.” [Chicago Sun-Times, 7/8/15]

• Rauner’s Pension Overhaul Bill “Appears To Have Been Put Together With Little Or No Input From Organized Labor.” According to the Chicago Sun-Times, “But Rauner’s bill may include some ideas from other leaders, the proposal was a far cry from negotiated deal and appears to have been put together with little or no input from organized labor.” [Chicago Sun-Times, 7/8/15]

HEADLINE: “Rauner Pension Plan: Cut Benefits For Cops, Firefighters, Teachers” [Chicago Sun-Times, 6/24/16]

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Chicago, IL – In response to the Worst Republican Governor in America’s comments at this morning’s press conference, Pritzker campaign manager Anne Caprara released the following statement:

“We’re not going to get in the way of the Bruce Rauner implosion tour.”

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Chicago, IL – JB Pritzker released the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Donald Trump’s travel ban to go into effect:

“It is disgraceful that the U.S. Supreme Court is allowing Donald Trump to impose a poorly disguised religious test for entrance into our country,” said JB Pritzker. “It’s clear that this bigoted president’s goal is to implement a Muslim ban, which is not just mean-spirited, but it goes against the foundation upon which our country was built. Illinoisans should know they live in a welcoming state and country, but Bruce Rauner remains silent as Trump advances his hateful agenda in Washington. As governor, I will always stand up for our immigrant families and resist Donald Trump’s racist and bigoted agenda at every turn.”

###

Chicago, IL – Following continued inaction in Congress nearly three months after Donald Trump threatened to end DACA, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Congress must act now to pass the DREAM Act and protect our young immigrants,” said JB Pritzker. “We’re talking about children and families, neighbors and friends, whose lives could be torn apart by Donald Trump’s bigoted agenda. There is no question these brave DREAMers deserve every opportunity to succeed and contribute to our state and nation’s prosperity. Bruce Rauner has failed to speak out about the urgency of passing the DREAM Act, but fortunately Senator Durbin is leading the fight in Washington and I thank each and every organization, activist, and everyday Illinoisan demanding Congress do what’s right. When I’m governor, immigrant families in Illinois and those who stand with them will have a partner in Springfield.”

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JB Pritzker: El Congreso Debe Actuar ya para Proteger a los “Dreamers”

Chicago, IL — Ante la continua inacción del Congreso por casi tres meses después que Donald Trump amenazara con eliminar DACA, JB Pritzker emite la siguiente declaración:

“El Congreso de la Nación debe actuar inmediatamente, para aprobar el DREAM Act que protege a los inmigrantes jóvenes,” dijo JB Pritzker. “Estamos hablando de nuestros niños y las familias, vecinos y amigos, cuyas vidas podrían ser destrozadas por la agenda perversa de Trump. No cabe duda de que estos valientes Dreamers merecen toda oportunidad posible para alcanzar el éxito y así poder contribuir a la prosperidad de nuestro estado y la nación. Bruce Rauner ha fracasado al no hablar sobre la urgente necesidad de aprobar el DREAM Act, pero afortunadamente el Senador Durbin está liderando la lucha en Washington. Le agradezco a cada organización, activista y a cada residente de Illinois por exigirle al Congreso a que actúe, haciendo lo que es correcto. Cuando sea gobernador, las familias inmigrantes de Illinois y quienes los apoyan tendrán un aliado en Springfield.”

 

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Carbondale, IL – Yesterday, State Representative Juliana Stratton finished her two-day tour of Southern Illinois at the Carbondale JB for Governor office opening. During her stops, she discussed her and JB’s priorities to put Springfield back on the side of working families by investing in quality education, creating jobs, and expanding healthcare for Illinois families.

Juliana began the trip Friday with a tour of Impack social services and highlighted the damage done to social service agencies by Bruce Rauner’s 736-day budget crisis:

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