CHICAGO, IL — Governor JB Pritzker and Christian Mitchell continued their statewide bus tour today, making stops in Springfield, Champaign-Urbana, and Murphysboro.
Gov. Pritzker and Mitchell made their first stop at Lulu’s Diner in Springfield, where they greeted patrons and Sangamon County Democrats. They were joined by Diana Carlile, Chair of the Sangamon County Democrats.
“The Democratic Party is the party that uplifts the little guy, and here in Sangamon County, we’ve delivered wins for Illinoisans by expanding resources for small businesses, investing in infrastructure development, and boosting local efforts to prevent and end homelessness,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “At a time when federal attacks threaten the progress we’ve made, it’s more important than ever to elect Democratic leaders who will stand for justice, lower costs, and protect our rights.”
“Democrats are standing up for justice, fighting to lower costs, and protecting our rights, all while Darren Bailey and Illinois Republicans push extreme policies that leave working people behind,” said lieutenant gubernatorial candidate Christian Mitchell. “Thanks to local Democratic parties like the one here in Sangamon County, we’ve elected Democrats up and down the ballot who have turned that work into real wins for Illinoisans. That means wages raised, healthcare expanded, and public schools invested in at record levels.”
“Governor Pritzker’s impact is visible across every part of Illinois, and Sangamon County is no exception,” said Sangamon County Democratic County Chair Diana Carlile. “Thanks to his leadership, Democrats across the state are making tangible improvements in people’s lives — helping small businesses thrive and securing historic investments in infrastructure.”
Then, Gov. Pritzker and Mitchell went to Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana to greet students at an Illini Democrats gathering, reaffirming their fight for Illinois students and their futures. They discussed the importance of young voters making their voices heard at the ballot box.
“As the school year ramps up, so does our fight for democracy this November,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “While the Trump administration attacks voting rights, strips away research funding from top universities, and fails working families, I’m fighting for the rights of all Illinoisans, especially the students whom we’re counting on to lead.”
“Just last month, I left the Illini Democrats annual convention feeling inspired by, and so proud of, the incredible and passionate young leaders we have here in Illinois,” said lieutenant gubernatorial candidate Christian Mitchell. “Over the last seven years, JB has fought to make college more affordable and accessible, while expanding voting rights for young Illinoisans. That progress is due in no small part to our Illini Democrats, who do the hard work every election season to elect Democrats up and down the ballot.”
“The entire project of Illini Democrats is to secure a promising future — with a thriving environment, an equitable economy, and a healthy democracy,” said Joey Dowling, President of Illini Democrats. “JB Pritzker fights for those things every day. Not only is he a crucial partner, he’s a role model for young people across Illinois.”
Lastly, Gov. Pritzker and Mitchell visited the Democratic Party of Illinois field office in Urbana to thank staff and volunteers for their hard work this election cycle. They were joined by Mayor DeShawn Williams.
“Democrats are the party of working families, and here in Illinois, we’re proving that every day through our fight to lower costs, protect people’s rights, and ensure a future where everyone can lead good lives,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The Democratic Party of Illinois and its volunteers are at the frontlines of protecting our democracy, and I couldn’t be prouder to join them in this fight.”
“As the former Executive Director of the Democratic Party of Illinois, I saw firsthand what’s possible when volunteers and staff do the hard work to elect Democrats,” said lieutenant gubernatorial candidate Christian Mitchell. “That groundwork has built the Illinois we have today, a state that has raised the minimum wage, erased over $1.1 billion in medical debt, and protected women’s reproductive freedom. Darren Bailey and MAGA Republicans want to drag us backward. Let me be clear: We’re not giving Donald Trump one inch of Illinois, and we’re sure as hell not letting Darren Bailey hand it to him.”
“It was an honor to host Governor JB Pritzker and our next lieutenant governor, Christian Mitchell, here in Champaign County,” said Urbana Mayor DeShawn Williams. “Today’s visit from the governor reinforces the strong bond between our county and the state as we build a brighter future and continue moving Illinois forward.”
Along the way, Gov. Pritzker and Mitchell visited Lincoln’s Nose, attended a prayer breakfast with faith leaders in Springfield, and met with Jackson County Democrats at 17th Street BBQ for their annual dinner.
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CONTACT: press@jbpritzkercampaign.com