Monday, March 12, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Dan Biss says he’s running on his record, but earlier this month, he skipped two important floor votes in Springfield.

Despite being a chief co-sponsor, Dan Biss wasn’t in Springfield to vote for the bill that put legalizing marijuana on the ballot. That same day, Biss failed to show up to vote for a bill that increased protections for working families that had the backing of several unions.

“Earlier this month, Dan Biss skipped votes putting marijuana legalization on the ballot and a bill that protects workers,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “Biss would rather talk about his record on the campaign trail than show up and get things done for working families.”

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Sunday, March 11, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker attended the South Side Irish Parade open house and breakfast and then marched in the parade. At the events, JB highlighted the importance of getting out the vote in the final nine days of the election and the need for Democrats to come together to defeat Bruce Rauner in November.

JB began the day speaking with voters at a pre-parade breakfast and open house:

He then marched in the parade with the workers of IBEW Local 134:

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Saturday, March 10, 2018

 

Joliet, IL – Today, JB Pritzker visited with voters and small business owners in the Chicagoland area. During his stops, JB highlighted Bruce Rauner’s failed leadership, his plans to support small businesses, and the importance of getting out the vote on March 20.

This morning, JB was joined by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin for a meeting with small business owners at Englewood Accelerator in Chicago:

In the afternoon, JB visited and rallied voters at the Aurora Township Democrats Office ahead of the March 20th primary:

JB finished the day at the Will County Progressives Office in Joliet, stressing the role grassroots organizing will play in defeating Bruce Rauner in November:

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Saturday, March 10, 2018

 

Marion, IL – Yesterday, JB Pritzker traveled to Waukegan and Marion to speak with voters in the final two weeks of the campaign. At the stops, JB highlighted his plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families and the critical importance of getting out the vote.

JB began the day speaking with voters in Waukegan:

He then attended a Get Out the Vote rally at IUOE Local 318 in Marion:

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Friday, March 9, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Chris Kennedy didn’t only skirt capital gains tax on the sale of the Merchandise Mart, he openly bragged about it when he closed the deal.

In 1998, Chris Kennedy boasted, “It’s a very attractive capital gains situation right now for a lot of folks.” Forbes describes how it happened: “Thanks to a carefully crafted deal with Vornado Realty, the Kennedy family deferred – or possibly avoided completely – capital gains tax on nearly half the value of the sale.”

“Chris Kennedy proudly skirted taxes when he sold the Merchandise Mart and bragged about it to the press,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “From circumventing affordable housing requirements at Wolf Point to avoiding capital gains tax, Kennedy has consistently put his own bottom line ahead of Illinois’ working families.”

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Thursday, March 8, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker and State Representative Juliana Stratton hosted International Women’s Day breakfasts in both Chicago and Springfield. At the events, they highlighted their plans to fight for equal pay for equal work, stand up for women’s rights and women’s healthcare, and the importance of getting out the vote on March 20th.

“I’m so honored to celebrate International Women’s Day where we recognize the incredible achievements of women across the world,” said JB Pritzker. “I’ve been standing up for women’s rights my whole life and I’ll continue to do that as governor. My administration will be representative of the diversity of this state and will focus on fighting for economic, social, and political equality. Women will always have a seat at the table as we press for progress and build a better future for our state.”

“Today, across the state, nation, and world, women are uniting,” said State Representative Juliana Stratton. “We are celebrating our power and endless potential. We are claiming our seat at the table and contributing our voices to the decisions and policymaking that affect our families and our communities. There are 12 days until the primary election. We can either sit back and let the chips fall where they may, or we can dare to use our collective voice and our diverse perspectives to demand we be the architects of our future.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Wednesday, March 7, 2018

 

Springfield, IL – Today, JB Pritzker returned to central Illinois with stops in Danville, Urbana, and Springfield to speak with voters and volunteers and join the workers of GEO Local 6300 on the picket line. At the stops, JB highlighted the critical importance of getting out the vote in the last 13 days of the election and the need to stand up for working families and workers’ rights.

At the first stop, JB was joined by Illinois State Treasurer Mike Frerichs and State Senator Scott Bennett for a meet and greet with Vermilion County Democrats:

JB and Treasurer Frerichs then joined Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery and the workers of GEO Local 6300 on the picket line at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign:

JB finished the day speaking with volunteers and getting out the vote at a JB for Governor phone bank:

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Wednesday, March 7, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – From the signature issues of his campaign to petty jabs at fellow Democrats, Chris Kennedy can’t seem to get his facts straight. Let’s take a look:

• Buying Guns On Amazon: On Thursday, Kennedy falsely claimed that Amazon sold guns.

• Insulting Cairo Students: Over the past few weeks, Kennedy has hurled insults at Cairo students that have no basis in fact, and despite being fact checked and corrected in real time, he tripled down on his attacks.

• Making Up Campaign Donations: Kennedy said that JB Pritzker donated to Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker. Yet another bold face lie.

• Misunderstanding Property Taxes: Kennedy has repeatedly gotten the facts wrong on a signature issue of his campaign. Early in his campaign, Kennedy was caught botching the facts about the property tax appeals process, and nine months later, he was still making the same mistake and was even corrected by Dan Biss.

“Chris Kennedy has a fraught relationship with the truth, confusing his facts or just flat out lying on the campaign trail,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “From misunderstanding the property tax system to making false attacks on companies, competitors and even students, Kennedy has displayed a willingness to hurl rhetoric with little regard for the truth.”

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Tuesday, March 6, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Yesterday, JB Pritzker hosted a roundtable discussion with Congressman Luis Gutiérrez, Latino community leaders, and DACA recipients to highlight Donald Trump’s continued attacks on DACA and immigrant communities. At the roundtable, the participants emphasized the importance of elevating immigrant voices, the need for a governor who will protect immigrants, and policies to protect and aid immigrant communities.

“Illinois must be a welcoming state where everyone is treated with dignity and respect so that all of our families have the opportunity to thrive,” said JB Pritzker. “But we have a governor who refuses to stand up to our racist, bigoted president and refuses to fight for immigrants in Illinois. We can’t afford to remain silent. We have to lift up the voices in our immigrant communities, stand together to protect DACA recipients and Dreamers, and fight to provide education, healthcare, and economic opportunities to our state’s immigrants. When I’m governor, immigrant families will have a steadfast ally and advocate in Springfield as we fight to make this state a firewall against Donald Trump.”

 

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Martes 6 de marzo, 2018

 

JB Pritzker Organizó una Mesa Redonda sobre DACA junto al Congresista Gutierrez, Activistas y Líderes de la Comunidad

 

Chicago, IL — Ayer JB Pritzker, en mesa redonda junto al Congresista Luis Gutierrez, se reunió con líderes de la comunidad Latina y jóvenes con el estatus de DACA, para destacar los continuos ataques de Donald Trump contra la comunidad inmigrante. Durante la mesa redonda, los participantes enfatizaron la importancia de elevar las voces de los inmigrantes, la necesidad de contar con un gobernador y políticas que protejan a estas comunidades de inmigrantes.

“Illinois debe convertirse en un estado donde todos sean tratados con dignidad y respeto para que todas las familias puedan prosperar,” dijo JB Pritzker. “Pero tenemos un gobernador que rechaza enfrentar a nuestro presidente racista e intolerante en defensa de los inmigrantes de Illinois. No podemos quedarnos en silencio. Hemos elevado nuestras voces en nuestras comunidades inmigrantes, y estamos unidos para proteger a los jóvenes con el estatus de DACA y Dreamers, para luchar por el acceso a una  educación, el cuidado de la salud y oportunidades económicas para los inmigrantes de nuestro estado. Cuando sea gobernador, las familias inmigrantes tendrán un firme aliado y un defensor en Springfield, mientras luchamos para que Illinois sea un muro de protección contra Donald Trump.”

 

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PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Tuesday, March 6, 2018

 

“I Don’t Know That There’s Much We Can Do About the Trump Administration”

 

Chicago, IL – Time and again, Chris Kennedy proves that he is either unwilling or unable to stand up to Donald Trump if he’s elected governor, which is unsurprising given his applause of Bruce Rauner.

When asked how he’d prevent Trump from cutting student aid on Thursday, Kennedy said, “I don’t know that there’s much we can do about the Trump administration.” Kennedy’s defeatist answer echoes another weak response from December when he failed to name a fix for Trump’s tax plan, instead saying “sometimes the best thing to do is nothing.”

“Illinois needs a governor willing and able to stand up to Donald Trump, and Chris Kennedy has shown he won’t be the fighter our state deserves,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “While Chris Kennedy squirms and Bruce Rauner cowers, JB Pritzker will lead the charge to resist Donald Trump and protect Illinois communities.”

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Monday, March 5, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – At a roundtable on the West Side of Chicago, JB Pritzker unveiled his economic inclusion plan and was endorsed by House Deputy Majority Leader Art Turner, House Assistant Majority Leader Jehan Gordon-Booth and Representatives Marcus Evans Jr., Christian Mitchell, and LaToya Greenwood.

The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus members helped shape JB’s plan to foster economic inclusion. The plan focuses on twelve areas of opportunity to create economic growth and jobs by expanding opportunities for minority entrepreneurs and small business owners across the state. Read the full plan HERE.

“Communities across Illinois have been left out and left behind when it comes to economic prosperity and job growth,” said JB Pritzker. “Bruce Rauner’s fiscal mismanagement has stunted job creation, destabilized local economies, and eroded the financial security of working families. We need to undo the damage done by Bruce Rauner and foster economic inclusion especially in black and brown communities. As governor, I look forward to working with leaders like State Representatives Art Turner, Jehan Gordon-Booth, Marcus Evans Jr., Christian Mitchell, and LaToya Greenwood to bring real opportunity to every community in Illinois and I’m proud to have their support in this campaign.”

“Illinois needs a leader who is dedicated to helping our community move beyond just jobs to create true wealth and prosperity, and I’m confident JB is that leader,” said Deputy Majority Leader Art Turner. “He has a comprehensive plan to make the procurement process more inclusive. He will also support minority-owned businesses and get them the capital they need to thrive. JB cares about these issues and is presenting real solutions to move us forward.”

“JB has spent time in black communities all over Illinois,” said Assistant Majority Leader Jehan Gordon-Booth. “JB is someone who truly listens. He has heard the concerns expressed by black families and has brought us to the table to create real plans that will build economic opportunity for everyone.”

“As a job creator, JB understands how important it is to support our Black, Latino and women entrepreneurs,” said State Representative Marcus Evans Jr. “His economic empowerment plan will give small businesses the tools they need to thrive by establishing business incubators and expanding access to capital for Black, Latino and women entrepreneurs throughout Illinois. JB is the only candidate in this race with the leadership experience and vision necessary to create real, lasting economic success in our communities.”

“I’ve gotten to know JB over these past few months, and he truly has a heart for our community,” said State Representative Christian Mitchell. “JB is the only candidate for governor with a real plan to create opportunities for employment and business ownership for black workers and entrepreneurs. The time for lip service is over. We need a governor who is committed to our community, and I know that’s JB Pritzker.”

“As a legislator, I’ve fought tirelessly to increase economic opportunity in black communities by expanding youth employment,” said State Representative LaToya Greenwood. “With JB in Springfield, I know I’ll have a partner who is committed to investing in our young people and getting our state back on track.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Monday, March 5, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – In response to the Gun Dealer Licensing Act being passed by the General Assembly and sent to Bruce Rauner, JB Pritzker released the following statement calling on the governor to immediately sign the bill:

“The Gun Dealer Licensing Act is critical legislation that will help prevent gun trafficking and keep families safe. Bruce Rauner should immediately sign it,” said JB Pritzker. “Communities and families across this state have been devastated by gun violence and instead of playing politics, Bruce Rauner should keep his word and take immediate action. This critical legislation will help keep guns out of the hands of those who shouldn’t have them and I call on Bruce Rauner to immediately sign the Gun Dealer Licensing Act and help keep our communities safe.”

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Monday, March 5, 2018

 

“The Kids Who Graduate are Going to Have a Hard Time Making it in this Economy”

 

Chicago, IL – Instead of apologizing for badmouthing Cairo students and making false claims, Chris Kennedy tripled down on his attacks on public school teachers and students.

Despite being reminded that SAT scores are not a recognized as a metric for college readiness, Kennedy defended his repeated attacks yesterday, claiming “the information I took was right off of a state of Illinois website, and that’s how we’re measuring ourselves.” He then continued slinging insults at hardworking students, saying “the kids who graduate are going to have a hard time making it in this economy.” Cairo students are defending themselves and taking the high road, with one high school senior telling a local TV station, “If he doesn’t think I can make it, I got to prove him wrong.”

WATCH:

“Chris Kennedy insults hardworking students left and right, and won’t back down from his baseless attacks even after he is confronted with the facts,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “Students and teachers in Cairo have already stood up to correct Kennedy, but he refuses to learn his lesson.”

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TRANSCRIPT

Maxwell: You pointed out recently that in Cairo, down in Southern Illinois, that zero percent of the students there were ready for college according to their SAT scores. That’s correct, but they don’t use that score for college readiness in the state of Illinois currently. Are you running dangerously close to- in the past we’ve seen this issue where you’re calling for more state funding for schools, but also some of the teachers and students there took offense that maybe you were saying they weren’t doing their jobs.

Kennedy: The information I took was right off of a state of Illinois website, and that’s how we’re measuring ourselves.

Maxwell: Can you clarify that comment?

Kennedy: I don’t believe that the tests measure potential or academic success. As the chairman of the University of Illinois, I sat, I sit on a board associated with the University of Chicago. I sit on the board associated with Kellogg, the school of business at Northwestern. I spent 12 years on the board of the Chicago, or the Catholic Theological Union. And so I know test scores are not determinant, but what they are evidence of is massive underfunding of our schools where if you’re in a town without a lot of property taxes, your school is so underfunded that the kids who graduate are going to have a hard time making it in this economy.

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Monday, March 5, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Yesterday, JB Pritzker spoke with church goers, volunteers, and union members at seven stops in Chicago, Joliet, and Countryside. Along the way, JB was endorsed by three elected officials, and spoke with voters about his plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families by creating jobs in every community across Illinois, expanding affordable, quality healthcare for all, and investing in education for every student.

JB started his morning at Apostolic Church of God:

He then spoke with congregants at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church:

Afterwards, JB visited Sweet Holy Spirit Church:

And wrapped up his church visits at King of Glory Tabernacle Church:

JB then traveled to Joliet for a canvass kick-off at the JB for Governor Joliet organizing office:

JB then spoke with Will County residents at a meet and greet at Carpenters Local 174. At the event, JB was endorsed by State Senator Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant:

“I’m so proud to have the endorsement of Senator Bertino-Tarrant,” said JB Pritzker. “We’re in the final stages of this primary campaign, and it is critical that Democrats come together to beat Bruce Rauner and put Springfield back on the side of working families. With the support of everyone standing with me today, and working families throughout the state, I’m confident we can move Illinois forward and create jobs, expand healthcare, and invest in education so everybody in Illinois has an opportunity to thrive.”

“As chairwoman of the Senate Education Committee, I know JB is the leader we need to advocate for our public education system,” said State Senator Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “JB will prioritize our investment in public education to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed, no matter where he or she lives. I’m proud to support JB, a champion for our children. I look forward to our educators and students having a true ally as our next governor.”

State Representatives Natalie Manley and Larry Walsh Jr. joined Senator Bertino-Tarrant in announcing their support for JB for governor:

“JB has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights his entire life, and I know he’ll continue to fight for women in Springfield,” said State Representative Natalie Manley. “JB played a critical role advocating for HB40, has built a campaign that elevates and empowers women, and will do the same in his administration. I know with JB, women will have a fighter in the governor’s office who stands with us on the issues that matter.”

“JB is the only candidate in this race that will continue to build the economic prosperity in Will County,” said State Representative Larry Walsh Jr. “With JB in Springfield, I know I will have a partner who will fight to create jobs and support small business owners and entrepreneurs in every community. This is a critical time for our state and JB Pritzker is the right candidate to get Illinois back on track.”

For the last stop of the day, JB went to IUOE Local 150 in Countryside for a GOTV rally with union members:

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Saturday, March 3, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker and State Representative Juliana Stratton cast their early vote ballots at the Chicago early voting super site.

“I’m proud to be running a statewide, grassroots campaign to put Springfield back on the side of working families,” said JB Pritzker. “We’re at a critical time for our state, and it’s more important now than ever that Illinoisans get out to vote and make their voices heard. Together, with the support of U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Illinois State Treasurer Mike Frerichs, Secretary of State Jesse White, and working families across this state, I’m confident we can bring Democrats together to take on Bruce Rauner in November and move our state forward.”

“I’m so thrilled to join JB in this campaign as we fight for Illinois’ working families,” said State Representative Juliana Stratton. “Together in Springfield, I’m confident that we can create jobs in communities throughout the state, expand affordable, quality healthcare for everyone, and invest in education for every child, no matter their income, skin color, or zip code. As we head into the final 17 days of this primary election, I look forward to winning on March 20th so we can unite the Democratic Party and beat Bruce Rauner in November.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

 

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – At the fifth Democratic gubernatorial primary debate in Chicago tonight, JB Pritzker demonstrated that he is the only candidate prepared to hold Bruce Rauner accountable for his record of creating crisis for Illinois’ working families. JB showed he is the only candidate with the vision and leadership to get Illinois back on track while highlighting his plans to create jobs, invest in education, and pass a progressive income tax in Illinois.

“Every voter watching tonight clearly saw that JB Pritzker is the only candidate ready to hold Bruce Rauner accountable for his failed leadership,” said Pritzker campaign manager Anne Caprara. “JB made the case that Bruce Rauner has fiscally mismanaged state government and launched attack after attack on working families. Unlike Rauner, JB has real plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families and reverse the disinvestment in Illinois communities. It’s time for Democrats to come together to move Illinois forward and JB is the leader ready to unite this party and this state.”

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

JB Pritzker has played a critical role in creating an environment for companies like Amazon to consider Illinois as a potential home. At 1871, JB created thousands of technology jobs while helping turn Chicago into one of the top technology hubs in the world. As governor, JB will fight for Amazon HQ2 while ensuring any incentives used to attract the company are a good investment for Illinois taxpayers.

 

REALITY CHECK

• JB is the only candidate who has created thousands of jobs in Illinois.
• For nearly two decades, JB has played a leading role in turning Chicago into one of the nation’s top technology hubs.
• JB believes we should work to bring Amazon to Illinois while ensuring they follow through on their job creation commitments.

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

Chris Kennedy is against the legalization of marijuana, despite the fact that it could bring in $350 to $700 million annually in much needed revenue. Kennedy said it’s “dangerous” to legalize recreational marijuana, calling it a “public health hazard.” However, studies show legal marijuana can actually help combat opioid addiction, and is less harmful than tobacco or alcohol. If Kennedy’s preference for decriminalizing marijuana instead of legalizing was all that was implemented, it could mean fines and jail time that would disproportionately impact communities of color.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• Chris Kennedy called legalizing marijuana “dangerous” and a “public health hazard.”
• While Chris Kennedy supports decriminalization, this alone could still mean fines or jail times that disproportionately impact communities of color.
• A variety of studies have found that marijuana can be legalized safely, including a University of British Columbia study that found, “using marijuana could help some alcoholics and people addicted to opioids kick their habits.”

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

JB Pritzker introduced a plan to create jobs and grow the economy in every corner of the state. JB’s plan will invest in infrastructure, provide capital and support for small businesses, and lift up our community colleges and public universities as engines of economic growth. The plan also provides support to longstanding pillars of Illinois’ economy like agriculture and manufacturing.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• JB introduced a five-point jobs plan to revitalize the Illinois economy and get the state back on track.
• As governor, JB will prioritize a comprehensive 21st Century Capital Bill and create jobs statewide by employing Illinoisans on new construction projects.
• JB will expand access to capital, rebuild Small Business Development Centers, and guarantee truth in lending for small business borrowers.
• JB will empower community colleges as hubs of economic growth, workforce training, and innovation, support university-based start-ups, and expand youth apprenticeship programs.
• JB will make sure that upgrades to our state’s infrastructure take into account farm to market transportation and will work to implement policies that help our agriculture communities thrive.
• JB will support policies that enable research and innovation to allow Illinois to continue growing its manufacturing businesses.

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

While Dan Biss campaigns on a LaSalle Street tax, his record tells a different story. In the General Assembly, Biss voted for millions in tax breaks for financial exchanges like the ones he assails with the LaSalle Street tax. Explaining his vote, Biss noted that it is because an exchange is a “fundamentally extremely mobile business” that could easily pick up and move out of the state. That hasn’t changed, but it appears that Biss’ stance on the issue has.  

 

REALITY CHECK: 

• In 2012, Dan Biss voted for a bill with $216 million in tax breaks for businesses, with $85 million going directly to tax breaks for financial exchanges.

• Defending his vote, Biss said he supported the tax breaks for a “fundamentally extremely mobile business” like a financial exchange to keep the tax-generating business from leaving the state.

• Financial exchanges are still “fundamentally extremely mobile,” so when and why did Dan Biss change his mind?

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

Instead of focusing on how to prevent sexual harassment, Chris Kennedy has been playing politics with the issue. On Monday, his campaign released a plan it claimed would help combat the problem of sexual harassment in political campaigns, which would require employees to receive sexual harassment training from a third party. Two days later, the Kennedy campaign admitted it had failed to hold such a training for its own staff. With just weeks left in the primary, it is unclear when Kennedy plans on meeting his own requirement and holding a sexual harassment training.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• On Monday, Chris Kennedy’s campaign released a sexual harassment prevention plan that required “all employees [to] receive sexual harassment training by a third party provider.”
• Two days later, Kennedy’s campaign then admitted that it had not held any sexual harassment training for its own staff.

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – While candidate Chris Kennedy recently said that collective bargaining was “a central tenant of the American Dream,” he has a long history of opposing the labor movement.

In 2013, Chris Kennedy said a tenured faculty union was a “threat to the greatness of the University of Illinois.” While faculty at the UIC and UIUC unionized, Kennedy and his Board of Trustees were part of lawsuits to challenge the bargaining units. And back in 1998, Kennedy praised efforts to cut overtime pay, calling them “hugely significant.”

LISTEN:

“Chris Kennedy has disparaged unions and workers seeking collective bargaining, undercutting the ability of working families to come together and fight for a better future,” said Pritzker campaign spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh. “Suing to challenge bargaining units and calling it a ‘threat to greatness’ shows Kennedy has never truly recognized the value of the labor movement in our workplaces, despite his rhetoric on the campaign trail.”

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – With 18 days before the primary election and get out the vote operations in full swing statewide, the JB Pritzker campaign released a new digital ad, “Are You Ready for the Fight?”

The new ad features JB going door-to-door making his case directly to voters and rallying supporters at one of the campaign’s many field offices across the state. JB also highlights Bruce Rauner’s failures as governor and his readiness to take him on in November.

WATCH: “Are You Ready for the Fight?”

“I’m excited about the energy this campaign is building across the state and the passion among Democrats to unite and defeat Bruce Rauner,” said JB Pritzker. “Illinoisans know that this failed governor has created crisis after crisis and decimated our state’s economy, and they’re ready to fight. Together, we’re going to put Springfield back on the side of working families and move our state forward.”

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Friday, March 2, 2018

 

“The Advantage Goes to Pritzker”

 

Chicago, IL – At the fourth Democratic gubernatorial debate, JB Pritzker laid out his detailed plans to bring real change to Illinois while holding his opponents accountable for rhetoric that doesn’t match their records and taking Bruce Rauner to task for his damage to Illinois. Here’s what Illinoisans are reading and seeing in the news about the WBEZ/Politico/IOP debate:

From WGN:

From WMAQ:

From WBBM:

From Chicago Sun-Times:

State Sen. Daniel Biss – who promises to be the “Middle Class Governor” in ads running throughout the state — endured a “The Price is Right” question Thursday night at a gubernatorial forum in Chicago.

And he didn’t quite pass the test.

Biss, D-Evanston, was asked by WBEZ reporter Dave McKinney what the full price of a monthly CTA pass is during a lightning round of questions to test the six Democratic candidates on their knowledge of prices regular voters pay in everyday expenditures.

“This campaign has been framed as a battle for the heart of middle and low-income voters, and since that’s the case, we’re going to do a simple test to see how connected each of you is to average Illinoisans,” McKinney said.

Biss’s response?

“A monthly CTA pass. Now, let’s see. My Metra pass now comes pretty close to $50 a month. So A monthly CTA pass I would guess is probably around $35.”

The actual cost is $105, according to the CTA’s website.

From NBC 5 Chicago:

With JB Pritzker leading in the polls, the others were looking for that breakout moment.

Pritzker was ready with attacks Thursday night’s debate as well.

So, who won Thursday night? Kennedy’s performance was more focused but no knock out punch. Pritzker still has the advantage. […]

Pritzker questioned Kennedy’s leadership as chairman of the the University of Illinois board of directors.

“Well it’s kind of ironic that Mr. Kennedy is raising the issue of universities,” Pritzker said. “He raised tuition five times when he was the chairman of the University of Illinois.”

From WGN:

At a gubernatorial forum for Democratic candidates Thursday at the University of Chicago Institute of Politics, Daniel Biss and Chris Kennedy came out swinging, looking to mix it up with JB Pritzker, but Pritzker also showed up ready to fight.

Right out of the gate, JB Pritzker and Chris Kennedy, both wealthy businessmen, fought over who’s created the most jobs. Later, Pritzker attacked Kennedy for voting to raise tuition as Chair of the Board at the University of Illinois. […]

Pritzker also attacked State Senator Daniel Biss, saying he hasn’t stood up enough for the middle class. […]

This week, Pritzker is highlighting late endorsements from Chicago newspapers, unions and suburban mayors. 

From CBS 2 Chicago:

This week has also been the biggest drive for new gun laws Springfield has seen in years. The candidates offered their solution to gun violence in Chicago: […]

“I want to ban bump stocks, I want to ban assault weapons, I want to ban high capacity magazines,” Pritzker. […]

Candidates were also asked about the cost of everyday items to test how relatable they were. Sen. Biss said the cost of a monthly CTA pass was $35 when, in reality, it’s $105.

From Capitol Fax:

* As of yesterday at noon, Chris Kennedy’s campaign said that it had not yet conducted sexual harassment training for its campaign workers. As you know, Kennedy made a big media splash with his own proposal to combat sexual harassment in Illinois politics. That plan requires “sexual harassment training by a third party provider.”

Yesterday at noon, a Kennedy spokesperson claimed the campaign is “bringing in an outside expert to lead sexual harassment training for our campaign staff.”

At tonight’s WBEZ debate, Kennedy said “everyone has to go through sexual harassment training in our campaign.” Click here for a video clip.

* From the Pritzker campaign’s live debate reality check e-mails…

REALITY CHECK: Chris Kennedy Lies About His Campaign’s Sexual Harassment Training

Tonight, Chris Kennedy claimed that his campaign staff have received sexual harassment training, but just yesterday the Kennedy campaign admitted it had failed to hold such a training. The Kennedy campaign needs to tell voters the truth.

From Chicago Maroon:

Pritzker attacked Kennedy for his proposal, citing Kennedy’s previous actions as Chair of the Board of Trustees at the University of Illinois, which resulted in increased tuition and forced many students to seek education out of state. […]

Pritzker…said he firmly believed that the state can negotiate in areas like federal aid. “States fought the federal government when it came to saving Obamacare, and we can fight it to save student aid programs too,” Pritzker said. 

In an interview with reporters after the debate, the candidates largely criticized their opponents’ views and past actions, but also voiced their other plans if they are elected. Pritzker promised to unite Illinois residents and to get them more involved in the state’s affairs.  

“Many ventures like 1871 [a digital startup incubator that Pritzker helped found], which helped build Chicago’s digital startup community, came from getting people’s ideas together, and as a governor I will get people from all walks together and build upon their ideas,” Pritzker said during the conference. 

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – At the fourth Democratic gubernatorial primary debate in Chicago, JB Pritzker highlighted his bold vision and detailed plans to bring real change to Illinois. JB focused on how he will provide leadership this state hasn’t seen in years and get big things done while holding his opponents accountable for rhetoric that doesn’t match their records.

JB’s Plans to Reduce Gun Violence and Invest In Education

Chris Kennedy’s Tuition Hikes and Praise of Bruce Rauner

Dan Biss’ Flip-Flops on LaSalle St. Tax and Pension Theft

“JB Pritzker has big ideas and detailed plans to move Illinois forward and he made that clear in tonight’s debate,” said Pritzker campaign manager Anne Caprara. “From investing in quality education to creating jobs and addressing gun violence in our communities, JB will beat Bruce Rauner, take charge, and bring real change to Illinois. While other candidates are running on rhetoric that doesn’t match their records, JB has spent his life getting big things done and that’s exactly the kind of leadership he’ll bring to Springfield.”

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

JB Pritzker has a four-point plan to reform our criminal justice system and give all Illinoisans a chance to reach their full potential. JB’s plan focuses on legalizing marijuana and modernizing sentencing practices, reducing recidivism rates, reforming the juvenile justice system, and treating gun violence like a public health epidemic. With these reforms, JB will help build a criminal justice system that delivers justice to victims, rehabilitates individuals, and builds safer communities after decades of systemic disinvestment.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• JB’s plan will legalize marijuana in a safe way and modernize sentencing laws to reverse the foundational causes of mass incarceration that disproportionately impact communities of color.
• To reduce the recidivism rate, JB will prioritize rehabilitation and re-entry services for incarcerated people and create economic opportunities in all of our communities.
• JB will promote rehabilitative alternatives to prosecution and incarceration in our juvenile justice system with a focus on restorative justice.
• JB will address gun violence as a public health epidemic and hold police more accountable to the communities they serve.

###

Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Despite now claiming to oppose Mike Madigan, both Dan Biss and Chris Kennedy have taken a much different approach when it suited their own ambitions. During his time in state government, Dan Biss accepted contributions from Madigan, voted for him to be Speaker, and even ran his Super PAC. While exploring runs for office, Kennedy has consistently courted Madigan’s support, asking for his help and trying to get Mike Madigan’s blessing before running for governor.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• Dan Biss is the only candidate on stage who voted for Mike Madigan to be Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, while accepting nearly $250,000 from the Democratic Party chaired by Madigan, and over $14,000 from Madigan’s account
• Biss also ran Mike Madigan’s Super PAC, Leading Illinois for Tomorrow (LIFT), filling its coffers with millions from Madigan and top allies.
• Chris Kennedy repeatedly asked for Madigan’s help while considering running for office. After deciding not to run for Congress in 1999, Kennedy announced his decision in a letter addressed directly to the Speaker.
• Back in July 2016, Kennedy met with Madigan as he was considering a bid for governor.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Gun violence is a public health epidemic, taking far too many lives and impacting too many communities. JB has real plans to fight gun violence by preventing gun trafficking, keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals, and outlawing accessories like bump stocks. JB will also address the underlying causes of gun violence by working to expand economic opportunity to communities that have suffered from systemic disinvestment and increase funding for social services so people don’t turn to violence.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• JB supports the Gun Dealer Licensing Bill and red flag laws to keep guns out of the hands of people who wish to do harm.
• JB will work to ban bump stocks and assault weapons, to stop people from doing too much harm, much too quickly.
• To address the root causes of gun violence, JB will expand economic opportunity to communities that have suffered decades of systemic disinvestment and increase funding for human services.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Tonight, Chris Kennedy claimed that his campaign staff have received sexual harassment training, but just yesterday the Kennedy campaign admitted it had failed to hold such a training. The Kennedy campaign needs to tell voters the truth.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• On Monday, Chris Kennedy’s campaign released a sexual harassment prevention plan that required “all employees [to] receive sexual harassment training by a third party provider.”

• Two days later, Kennedy’s campaign then admitted that it had not held any sexual harassment training for its own staff.

###

 

Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

JB Pritzker believes that supporting Illinois Veterans means supporting opportunities for their families to build better lives. JB is the son and grandson of Navy Veterans, so he understands the sacred obligation we have to those who risk their lives for our country. JB’s plan to support Illinois Veterans will increase education and employment opportunity for Veterans and their families, guarantee safe, stable, and affordable housing options, improve healthcare, and better manage and coordinate Veterans’ services.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• JB will increase funding for Veterans’ educational services, incentivize businesses to hire Veterans and their spouses, and open access to professional licensing and higher education.
• JB will address unsafe living conditions for Illinois Veterans and increase access to affordable housing to reduce Veterans homelessness.
• To improve healthcare options for Illinois Veterans, JB will increase nursing staff in Veterans’ homes and expand access to mental healthcare, particularly in rural areas.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Dan Biss claims to be a bold progressive, but his own voting record tells a very different story. Biss helped write and pass unconstitutional pension cuts for downstate teachers, university workers, and state employees. He voted for $1.6 billion in Medicaid cuts, limiting collective bargaining, and hundreds of millions in tax breaks for businesses. Biss also voted to increase funding for charter schools by diverting money from public education and to let state government go after people’s wages if they fell behind on their student loans. Dan Biss’ bold hypocrisy shows he’s far from the squeaky-clean progressive he wants voters to think he is.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• Dan Biss “helped write” and led efforts to pass the pension bill that was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court because it cut pension benefits promised to over 467,000 state workers.
• Biss voted for $1.6 billion in cuts to Medicaid and to strip some public employees of their collective bargaining rights.
• Biss also voted for $216 million in tax breaks for businesses, including $85 million alone for the LaSalle Street financial exchanges that he assails.
• Biss voted to increase charter school funding in Illinois at the expense of the state’s public schools.

• Biss also voted to let state government go after people’s wages if they fell behind on their student loans in 2012.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

In 2013, Biss wrote the unconstitutional bill that cut pension benefits for 467,000 state employees, including teachers and nurses. This followed a 2012 vote where Biss tried to slash healthcare benefits from nearly 80,000 state retirees and retired suburban and downstate teachers. Both of those efforts were opposed by the Illinois AFL-CIO and ruled unconstitutional by the Illinois Supreme Court.

 

REALITY CHECK: 

• Dan Biss “helped write” the unconstitutional pension bill that cut pension benefits promised to over 467,000 state workers, including teachers and nurses.
• Biss also voted to cut 80,000 state retirees from health insurance coverage, which was later ruled unconstitutional.

• Biss’ attacks on working families in the General Assembly earned him the lowest lifetime rating from the IllinoisAFL-CIO of any Democratic State Senator.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Bruce Rauner stripped critical social services from over one million Illinoisans, stood on the sidelines as Donald Trump attacked immigrant families, and failed to call former KKK Grand Wizard David Duke a racist. But Chris Kennedy thinks he should be “applauded,” and said Rauner “is trying to do what he thinks is best for the state of Illinois.” Following a wave of criticism, Kennedy doubled down, refusing to say if he regretted praising the failed governor.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• Chris Kennedy said Bruce Rauner should be “applauded” for “trying to do what he thinks is best for the state of Illinois.”

• Following a wave of criticism, Kennedy stood by his praise for the failed governor.

###

Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

While Dan Biss campaigns on a LaSalle Street tax, his record tells a different story. In the General Assembly, Biss voted for millions in tax breaks for financial exchanges like the ones he assails with the LaSalle Street tax. Explaining his vote, Biss noted that it is because an exchange is a “fundamentally extremely mobile business” that could easily pick up and move out of the state. That hasn’t changed, but it appears that Biss’ stance on the issue has.  

 

REALITY CHECK: 

• In 2012, Dan Biss voted for a bill with $216 million in tax breaks for businesses, with $85 million going directly to tax breaks for financial exchanges.
• Defending his vote, Biss said he supported the tax breaks for a “fundamentally extremely mobile business” like a financial exchange to keep the tax-generating business from leaving the state.
• Financial exchanges are still “fundamentally extremely mobile,” so when and why did Dan Biss change his mind?

###

 

Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

While Chris Kennedy campaigns against the cost of college and the exodus of college-bound students from Illinois, a closer look shows that his record and his rhetoric doesn’t add up. As chairman of the University of Illinois’ Board of Trustees, Kennedy oversaw five consecutive tuition hikes and plummeting in-state enrollment, with the percentage of in-state freshmen dropping to a “new low.” During his tenure, African-American enrollment also plummeted by nearly 14%. Despite the student exodus under Kennedy’s tenure, he balked at the university’s decision to freeze tuition after five years of consecutive hikes, calling it “a big mistake.”

REALITY CHECK:

• From 2010-2014 Kennedy presided over five tuition hikes at U of I, raising tuition by nearly 30% in total.

• While Kennedy was chairman of the University of Illinois’ Board of Trustees, in-state enrollment plummeted, dropping to a “new low.”

• African-American enrollment dropped from 2,472 students in 2009 to 2,126 students in 2014, a nearly 14% decrease while Kennedy was board chair.

• Kennedy called the university’s decision to freeze tuition after five years of consecutive hikes under his leadership “a big mistake.”

###

Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

JB Pritzker has spent more than a decade creating thousands of jobs throughout Illinois, including in 2004 when he helped create the Midwest Venture Summit. JB has played a critical role in making Chicago one of the top tech hubs in the world. JB was named co-chair of ChicagoNEXT, a council aimed at creating tech jobs in 2012, and that same year he founded 1871, which has helped create over 7,000 jobs in Illinois. In 2014, JB spearheaded the first Chicago Venture Summit, aiming to connect venture capitalists with Chicago’s promising tech startups.

 

REALITY CHECK:

• JB Pritzker was pivotal in creating the Midwest Venture Summit in 2004, which showcased local startups seeking investors.

• JB founded 1871 in 2012, creating more than 7,000 jobs and turning Illinois into one of the top tech hubs in the world.

• That same year, JB was named co-chair of ChicagoNEXT, a council tasked with creating jobs and boosting digital technology investment in Chicago.

• As chair of ChicagoNEXT, JB spearheaded the creation of the Chicago Venture Summit, aimed at connecting venture capitalists with Chicago startups.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – A claim that spurred backlash from Cairo students themselves landed Chris Kennedy in hot water with fact checkers. The Better Government Association rated Kennedy’s claim that “zero percent of kids in Cairo are college-ready” as false.

BGA: Fact Check: Chris Kennedy Flunks Data Interpretation 101 With Cairo College Readiness Claim

Kennedy tried to make a point about inadequate state school funding when he declared “zero percent of kids in Cairo are college-ready.”

But school officials in that deep southern Illinois community report a majority of current seniors have already received acceptance offers from at least one college.

Kennedy backtracked on his original statement when news media sought clarification, though he did not admit error. In the second go-around, he pointed to slightly better numbers from a different set of state-collected test data. […]

The confusing set of numbers and assertions reeled out by Kennedy to bolster his comments about Cairo students make it clear he didn’t do his homework before claiming initially that no members of the graduating class of 2018 were prepared for college. For that reason, we rate his statement False.

“Chris Kennedy should get his facts straight and take time to understand the needs of the communities he’s so thoroughly insulting from the campaign trail,” said Pritzker communications director Galia Slayen. “Public education is the lifeblood of the Illinois economy and students are the future of this state, but Kennedy seems intent on badmouthing them instead of bringing people together to move Illinois forward.”

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Wednesday, February 28, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Today, JB Pritzker was joined by gun violence prevention advocate and founder of the Dajae Coleman Foundation, Tiffany Rice, to discuss ending gun violence in communities across Illinois. At the press conference, JB and Tiffany called on the General Assembly to immediately pass a package of gun violence prevention bills and called on Bruce Rauner to sign them. They also emphasized the need to address gun violence as a public health epidemic and lift up the communities most disproportionately affected by the issue.

“We’re here today to talk about gun violence, but we know we are long past the point where talk is enough. We need action,” said JB Pritzker. “This isn’t just about the mass shootings that dominate the media and capture our attention. It’s about daily violence ending too many young lives. Gun violence is a public health epidemic. Like treating a disease, we need to interrupt it, we need to reduce the risk, and we need to build safer and healthier communities. Today, the Illinois House of Representatives is taking a major step forward in this work and voting on critical gun violence prevention bills. The Senate should follow suit and pass this legislation and Bruce Rauner must do his job and immediately sign it.”

“Parents aren’t meant to bury their children. But for me and mothers like me across our city and our state, gun violence took our kids from us,” said Tiffany Rice. “We’ve gotten lip service and thoughts and prayers, but no action. The gun lobby has a seat at the table, but mothers and fathers who have lost their children do not. It is time to make sure that no other mother has to experience what I experienced. It is our leaders’ jobs to protect our families and it is time for them to start doing it.”

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

 

“JB’s Future-Focused Approach to Economic Development is Precisely What Illinois Needs”

 

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker campaign released a new TV ad, “Lead the Charge,” featuring the Chicago Sun-Times resounding endorsement of JB in the Democratic primary.

In the endorsement — which Capitol Fax called “one of the strongest I’ve ever seen for anyone” — the Chicago Sun-Times acknowledged that JB is best candidate to beat Bruce Rauner and praised his leadership and vision for Illinois.

WATCH: “Lead the Charge”

“I’m so honored to receive the endorsement of the Chicago Sun-Times, and when I’m governor, I will lead the charge to put Springfield back on the side of working families,” said JB Pritzker. “Bruce Rauner has decimated this state’s future, but I’ll be a governor who works hard every day to create jobs across Illinois, expand healthcare, and invest in education so every community can thrive. This is a grassroots, statewide campaign ready to win this primary and beat Bruce Rauner in November.”

 

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TRANSCRIPT

The Chicago Sun-Times endorses JB Pritzker for governor, praising JB’s achievements in both the private and public sectors.

JB’s future-focused approach to economic development is precisely what Illinois needs.

He offers Democrats the best chance to defeat Bruce Rauner.

And JB has a plan to properly fund public education that would ease the pressure on property taxes.

JB Pritzker has what it takes to lead the charge.

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Wednesday, February 28, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – After WBEZ’s release of 1,400 emails detailing the Rauner administration’s internal response to the Legionnaires’ crisis in Quincy, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“Bruce Rauner put managing headlines above managing the care of our nation’s heroes,” said JB Pritzker. “As Legionnaires’ spread in the Quincy Veterans’ Home, the Rauner administration moved quickly to stop the public relations crisis while leaving Veterans and their spouses behind. This is what failed leadership and fatal mismanagement looks like. Illinois Veterans deserve better than a governor who refuses to take charge and has no regrets after 13 Veterans and spouses died on his watch. When I’m governor, I will treat our Veterans with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

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Tuesday, February 27, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker campaign released a new Spanish language TV ad, “Un Aliado.” The ad features Congressman Luis Gutiérrez highlighting how JB will be an ally for every community in Illinois by investing in education, expanding healthcare, and standing up to Donald Trump’s attacks on immigrant communities and Dreamers.

WATCH: “Un Aliado”

“Congressman Luis Gutiérrez is a tireless fighter for Illinois’ families and I’m so honored to have his endorsement,” said JB Pritzker. “As governor, I will stand with Luis as an ally and a staunch advocate for every community in Illinois. Together, we will protect Dreamers from Donald Trump’s attacks, expand healthcare for Illinois families, and invest in the education that Illinois children need to thrive. It’s time for a governor who brings people together and lifts up our communities and that’s the leader I will be in Springfield.”

 

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Martes 27 de febrero, 2018

 

La Campaña de JB Pritzker hoy Lanza su Nuevo Anuncio en Español con el Congresista Luis Gutierrez: “Un Aliado”

 

Chicago, IL — Hoy, la campaña de JB Pritzker presentó un nuevo anuncio para la televisión en español titulado: “Un Aliado.” El anuncio muestra al Congresista Luis Gutierrez destacando como JB será el aliado de cada comunidad en Illinois, invirtiendo en la educación, expandiendo el cuidado médico y defendiendo a la comunidad inmigrante y a los Dreamers de los ataques de Donald Trump.

MIRE: “Un Aliado”

“El Congresista Luis Gutierrez es un incansable luchador de las familias de Illinois y me siento muy honrado de contar con su apoyo”, dijo JB Pritzker. “Como gobernador, me uniré a Luis como un aliado y defensor incondicional de cada comunidad de Illinois. Juntos protegeremos a los Dreamers de los ataques de Donald Trump, expandiremos el cuidado médico e invertiremos en la educación que los niños de Illinois necesitan para desplegar su potencial. Es tiempo de tener un gobernador que una a la gente, que eleve a las comunidades y ese es el líder que seré en Springfield.”

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Monday, February 26, 2018

 

New Ad Highlights Biss’ Support of Cutting Pensions, Charter Funding, and Wage Garnishment

 

Chicago, IL – Today, the JB Pritzker campaign released a new digital ad, “Dan’s Record,” highlighting Biss’ votes to cut pensions, increase charter funding at the expense of neighborhood public schools, and garnish wages of those who fall behind on student loans.

At the State Journal-Register/WMAY debate on Wednesday, Dan Biss said “I’m running on my record of seven years in the legislature, passing progressive laws, making tough choices.” But let’s see what that really looks like.

WATCH:

“Dan Biss voted to cut pensions for 467,000 state workers, including teachers and nurses, fill charter coffers at the expense of neighborhood public schools, and garnish wages of those struggling to repay student loans,” said Pritzker communications director Galia Slayen. “That’s not ‘making tough choices,’ that’s Dan Biss abandoning working families at every opportunity.”

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Monday, February 26, 2018

 

Unions, State and Community Leaders, and Newspapers Endorse JB for Governor

 

Chicago, IL – With 22 days until the primary election, support continues to build for JB and Juliana’s campaign. In the past week alone, the Chicago Sun-Times, Crain’s Chicago Business, the Illinois Nurses Association, ATU Local 308, State Sen. Toi Hutchinson, State Rep. Mike Halpin, 14 Rock Island County elected officials, 50 suburban mayors, and Chicago City Council’s Veterans Caucus have all announced their support.

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES

This kind of future-focused approach to economic development is precisely what Illinois sorely needs right now. It is also reflective of what seems to be Pritzker’s philosophy for trying to make a difference in this world: work it from the bottom up.

That’s the common thread — start at the beginning — running through Pritzker’s many years of public service, whether he was supporting new technology, working to expand childcare services and early-childhood education, or simply trying to provide every child with a good school breakfast.

Pritzker saw the promise and nurtured it.

Illinois could stand more of his positive and inclusive approach to leadership, as well as his ability — as witnessed in this campaign — to build broad coalitions.

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS

Still, he’s running on a credible business track record as a dealmaker, compromise-seeker, business community cheerleader, successful venture capitalist, committed philanthropist and a prime backer of Chicago tech startup incubator 1871. What Pritzker did with 1871 was take the initiative to both see and solve a problem that needed solving, winning Chicago’s tech scene some critical mass by focusing resources and increasing its visibility. He got VCs and universities, which traditionally don’t cooperate, and state government all to get on board. He assembled a capable team to do the heavy lifting, cajoled the Merchandise Mart into going along (while putting up a chunk of his own money to guarantee the lease), and eventually found the right leader to keep the grand vision from becoming an empty pipe dream.

That’s the sort of coalition-building that ought to give us confidence that Pritzker can pull together Springfield’s warlords and bang out the hardheaded deals needed to reform pensions, pay down state debts, balance the budget and put Illinois on course for growth after four years of failure.

ILLINOIS NURSES ASSOCIATION

“INA proudly endorses JB Pritzker for governor. Society can depend on him to support maintaining healthcare when he is elected governor.” — Lorraine Wade, Director of the Illinois Nurses Association

“JB understands that the people of Illinois need safe healthcare and he understands that means having enough nurses to provide safe care.”  — Doris Carroll, Vice President of the Illinois Nurses Association

ATU LOCAL 308

“ATU Local 308 Political Committee is proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor. JB has real plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families and end the all-out assault Bruce Rauner has launched on workers’ rights. With JB in Springfield, I know workers will always have a seat at the table and a staunch advocate in the state capitol. We look forward to getting out the vote for JB Pritzker at a critical time in this race.” —ATU Local 308 President Ken Franklin

STATE SEN. TOI HUTCHINSON

“I’ve spent the last few months getting to know JB. Asking hard questions of him and his campaign staff. I took my time in endorsing him because I wanted to be sure. I’m proud to endorse JB and Juliana because I believe that they are the team we need to turn this state around. The challenges we face are too big to think small. That’s why I’m here and that’s why I am standing with JB and Juliana who will fight to get us back on the right track.” — State Senator Toi Hutchinson

STATE REP. MIKE HALPIN AND 14 ROCK ISLAND COUNTY ELECTED OFFICIALS

“I’ve spent the last few months considering which candidate I would support for governor. As I went door-to-door to hear directly from the people I serve in the State Legislature, the thing that I heard the most is that people want a governor that they can count on to be on the side of working men and women. I’m proud to stand with JB Pritzker and my colleague Juliana Stratton in the fight to put Springfield back on the side of working families. I know that they can bring Democrats together to beat Bruce Rauner in November.” — State Representative Mike Halpin

50 SUBURBAN MAYORS

“JB Pritzker is the only candidate in this race with the leadership and vision to move our state forward. I’m confident he will work collaboratively with local elected officials and give us all a seat at the table as we work to expand healthcare for Illinois’ working families and build an economy that works for every community.” — McCook Mayor Jeff Tobolski

“I decided to support JB early on because he understands the challenges that the southland region faces regarding economic development and realizes more has to be done to move us forward. He is a man that listens and someone I trust to be our next governor of Illinois.” — Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin

“As Mayor and past Democratic committeeman, I strongly believe that JB Pritzker is the most qualified candidate and will be best for thriving municipalities. JB is the only Democratic candidate who can beat Bruce Rauner in the general election and I’m proud to support him.” — Niles Mayor Andrew Przybylo

CHICAGO VETERANS CAUCUS

“JB Pritzker will be the governor for Veterans. He understands the challenges that Veterans face and is ready to step up and help our community. He will lead the change when it comes to making Illinois the best state for Veterans.”— Veterans Caucus Chair Gilbert Villegas

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Monday, February 26, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – As the Supreme Court begins hearing oral arguments in Janus v. AFSCME today, JB Pritzker released the following statement:

“The future of the labor movement is under siege by Bruce Rauner and Donald Trump, and we must be relentless in the fight to protect unions and working families,” said JB Pritzker. “Our failed governor is going to extreme lengths to implement his far right-wing agenda to destroy our labor movement, and he’s partnered with none other than Donald Trump to make it a reality.

“In Janus v. AFSCME, the Supreme Court will hear radical arguments to undercut unions on a scale unlike anything we’ve seen before. While Trump and Rauner attack the freedom of working people to come together and fight for a better future, we must defend the hardworking men and women of the labor movement. As governor, I will fight alongside unions every day to raise wages, protect workers’ rights, and create jobs across Illinois.”

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Monday, February 26, 2018

 

Lombard, IL – Yesterday, JB Pritzker spoke with voters at nine events throughout the Chicagoland area. At the stops, JB highlighted his plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families by creating jobs, expanding healthcare, and investing in education.

JB began the morning at Mount Carmel Bible Church:

He continued to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church:

JB then spoke at Greater Rock Missionary Baptist Church:

Afterwards, JB headed over to Greater Garfield Missionary Baptist Church.

For his last church stop, JB spoke with congregants at the Greater Open Door Baptist Church:

After the church stops, JB headed to the collar counties to encourage getting out the vote on March 20th. The first stop was in Grayslake to speak with voters at the Lake County Democratic Convention:

JB then headed to Aurora to speak at the Kane County Democrats Truman Dinner:

For his next stop, JB spoke with volunteers at a JB for governor phone bank in Aurora:

And for the final event of the night, JB attended the DuPage County NAACP Freedom Fund Gala:

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Sunday, February 25, 2018

 

“My Parents Taught Me to Fight for Social and Economic Justice”

 

Chicago, IL – JB Pritzker sat down with the Dispatch-Argus editorial board this week and laid out his bold vision and detailed plans for Illinois. Here’s what Illinoisans are reading in the news about JB’s latest visit to the Quad Cities:

 

From Dispatch-Argus: Pritzker Wants To Help State’s Underserved:

“I’ve been involved my whole life in advocating for public policy that has mattered. My parents taught me to fight for social and economic justice. It’s something I grew up with; it’s part of my faith. I’ve pursued things I thought would make a difference for people across Illinois, like expanding school breakfasts for hundreds of thousands of kids in low-income school districts.” […]

As the creator of more than 5,000 jobs through his various business ventures, Mr. Pritzker said if elected governor, job creation will be among his priorities.

“I’m very focused on jobs,” he said. “I’m the only candidate who has created thousands and thousands of jobs. I think small business is a critical part of how we’re going to create jobs and change the future of the state. Two-thirds of new jobs are created by small businesses, and there are no lobbyists in Springfield for small businesses. If you elect a governor who understands that fact, we would have a lot more job creation in the state from startups.”

Infrastructure also will be a priority, he said, noting Illinois is not meeting maintenance standards of its roads and bridges. He is hopeful a federal infrastructure bill will soon pass that provides funding for repairs and construction.

“Everybody wants an infrastructure bill. (Illinois) is the supply chain hub of the country. We have to make sure our roads, bridges and waterways are invested in and are in good shape, or we will lose more jobs. A capital bill is required.”

Another important issue, he said, is providing broadband internet access to rural and underserved areas. Jobs cannot be created or sustained without adequate internet access.

 

Read the full article HERE.

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Saturday, February 24, 2018

 

Chicago, IL – Today, the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 308 Political Committee endorsed JB Pritzker for governor at a meet and greet in Chicago. At the event, JB highlighted his plans to fight for workers’ rights, defend pensions, and defeat Bruce Rauner in November. ATU Local 308 joins U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, the Illinois AFL-CIO, the IEA, the IFT, and over 30 individual unions in their support for JB for governor.

“I am so honored to receive the endorsement of ATU Local 308 and the working families it represents,” said JB Pritzker. “In the final weeks of this election, I know ATU Local 308 will play a critical role in helping build our statewide, grassroots campaign to move Illinois forward. Together, and with the support of working families across Illinois, we can beat Bruce Rauner and protect workers’ rights in our state.”

“ATU Local 308 Political Committee is proud to endorse JB Pritzker for governor,” said ATU Local 308 President Ken Franklin. “JB has real plans to put Springfield back on the side of working families and end the all-out assault Bruce Rauner has launched on workers’ rights. With JB in Springfield, I know workers will always have a seat at the table and a staunch advocate in the state capitol. We look forward to getting out the vote for JB Pritzker at a critical time in this race.”

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

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Saturday, February 24, 2018

 

Midlothian, IL – Today, 50 Chicagoland mayors endorsed JB Pritzker for governor at a campaign announcement in Midlothian. At the event, JB discussed his plans to rebuild Illinois’ crumbling infrastructure, increase access to capital for small businesses, and pass a progressive income tax to invest in education. The 50 mayors join U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, Secretary of State Jesse White, Treasurer Mike Frerichs, Comptroller Susana Mendoza, the Illinois AFL-CIO, and over 30 individual unions in their support for JB Pritzker.

“I am so honored to receive support from 50 Chicagoland mayors today,” said JB Pritzker. “With only 24 days left until the primary election, these local elected officials will be critical to continuing to build our statewide, grassroots campaign that will put Springfield back on the side of working families. Together, I know we can create an economy that works for all communities throughout Illinois by rebuilding our state’s infrastructure and passing a progressive income tax to invest in education for every child, no matter their zip code.”

“JB Pritzker is the only candidate in this race with the leadership and vision to move our state forward. I’m confident he will work collaboratively with local elected officials and give us all a seat at the table as we work to expand healthcare for Illinois’ working families and build an economy that works for every community,” said McCook Mayor Jeff Tobolski.

“I decided to support JB early on because he understands the challenges that the southland region faces regarding economic development and realizes more has to be done to move us forward. He is a man that listens and someone I trust to be our next governor of Illinois,” said Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin.

“As Mayor and past Democratic committeeman, I strongly believe that JB Pritzker is the most qualified candidate and will be best for thriving municipalities. JB is the only Democratic candidate who can beat Bruce Rauner in the general election and I’m proud to support him,” said Niles Mayor Andrew Przybylo.

“The City of Blue Island is a working-class community where people value a strict work ethic,” said Blue Island Mayor Domingo Vargas. “It has been a community of immigrants since its inception and we are people who believed and who still believe that by working hard all things are possible. The State of Illinois needs a strong-willed governor who could bring people together for the common good. Blue Island is a city that thinks outside the loop and is willing to make changes for the betterment of the whole. JB Pritzker shares the values that are found in our city. We need a governor who hears and responds to the interest of the local municipalities and this is why I believe JB is the best choice for governor.”

 

PHOTOS FOR MEDIA USE ONLY

Below is a full list of 50 mayors who endorsed JB for governor:

• John Ryan, Alsip
• Lou Presta, Crestwood
• Cathy Adduci, River Forest
• Gerald Bennett, Palos Hills
• Derrick Burgess, Sauk Village
• Sandra Bury, Oak Lawn
• Chris Getty, Lyons
• Andrew Przybylo, Niles
• Sergio Rodriguez, Summit
• Kevin Casey, Hometown
• Lawrence (Larry) Jackson, Riverdale
• Bob Kolosh, Thornton
• Gary L’Heureux, Midlothian
• Dennis Magee, Merrionette Park
• Terry Matthews, South Chicago Heights
• Barrett Pedersen, Franklin Park
• Jeff Tobolski, McCook
• Chuck Tokar, Chicago Ridge
• Domingo Vargas, Blue Island
• Tyrone Ward, Robbins
• Gene Williams, Lynwood
• Ernest Blevins, Markham
• Annie Coulter, Ford Heights
• James Ford, Country Club Hills
• Steve Landek, Bridgeview
• Riley Rogers, Dolton
• Noel Cummings, Hodgkins
• Ron Serpico, Melrose Park
• Vivian Covington, University Park
• Sheila Chalmers-Currin, Matteson
• Ron Gardiner, Glenwood
• Katrina Thompson, Broadview
• Frank Podbielniak, Posen
• Rick Reinbold, Richton Park
• David Brady, Bedford Park
• Don DeGraff, South Holland
• Patty Eidam, Lansing
• Kyle Hastings, Orland Hills
• Rich Hofeld, Homewood
• John Ostenburg, Park Forest
• Joseph Tamburino, Hillside
• Jim Sexton, Evergreen Park
• Terry Wells, Phoenix
• Paul Gattuso, Westchester
• Dan Foy, Burbank
• David Gonzalez, Chicago Heights
• Kenneth Peterson Jr., Steger
• Robert Polk, Burnham
• Jeff Walik, Stickney
• Donny Schmit, Fox Lake

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Saturday, February 24, 2018

 

“This Kind of Future-Focused Approach to Economic Development is Precisely What Illinois Sorely Needs Right Now.”

 

Chicago, IL – The Chicago Sun-Times endorsed JB Pritzker in the Democratic primary for governor yesterday. Here’s why:

 

Chicago Sun-Times: Endorsement: J.B. Pritzker and the future of Illinois:

Among the essential leaders in building Chicago’s vibrant tech industry, which barely existed two decades ago, has been J.B. Pritzker, whom we endorse in the Democratic primary for governor. He bought into the vision of “Silicon Prairie” early on, as a venture capitalist and public servant. He has put his energy, leadership and money behind it ever since.

Pritzker founded 1871, the tech business incubator in the Merchandise Mart credited with creating some 7,000 jobs. This remarkable nonprofit has raised Chicago’s profile nationwide as a high-tech hub. He served as chairman of Chicago’s Technology and Entrepreneurship Committee. He was a founder of Matter, the nonprofit healthcare technology incubator.

This kind of future-focused approach to economic development is precisely what Illinois sorely needs right now. It is also reflective of what seems to be Pritzker’s philosophy for trying to make a difference in this world: work it from the bottom up.

That’s the common thread – start at the beginning – running through Pritzker’s many years of public service, whether he was supporting new technology, working to expand childcare services and early-childhood education, or simply trying to provide every child with a good school breakfast.

Pritzker saw the promise and nurtured it.

Illinois could stand more of his positive and inclusive approach to leadership, as well as his ability – as witnessed in this campaign – to build broad coalitions.

 

Read the full endorsement HERE.

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Friday, February 23, 2018

 

Chicago City Council’s Veterans Caucus Endorses JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton

 

Chicago, IL – In front of the half-completed Veterans’ Home on the Northwest side of Chicago, Chicago City Council’s Veterans Caucus endorsed JB Pritzker and Juliana Stratton. Construction of the facility was halted by Bruce Rauner and its completion delayed for years because of his budget crisis. As this failed governor prevented this vital facility from being built, Rauner’s fatal mismanagement of the Quincy Veterans’ Home tragically took 13 lives.

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

From WGN:

From WBEZ:

From WGN Radio:

From Chicago Sun-Times: City Council veterans caucus endorses Pritzker, urges reforms:

Members of the Chicago City Council’s Veterans Caucus endorsed J.B. Pritzker Thursday before taking shots at Gov. Bruce Rauner for what they call the “fatal mismanagement” of veterans healthcare.

At a news conference outside of the concrete shell of a new Illinois Veterans’ Home, Ald. Gilbert Villegas (36th) said the caucus decided to “take a stance” by endorsing Pritzker because he is in tune with the issues and concerns of veterans.

“This project isn’t done and it’s been going on for years,” Villegas said. “We see what’s going on across the state as it relates to other veterans homes, like in Quincy, and the disregard for veterans.”

After conversations with others on the caucus, Villegas said they unanimously decided to support Pritzker, who, along with his lieutenant governor pick Juliana Stratton, called out Rauner for not doing enough to safeguard veterans from fatal diseases.

“When 13 veterans die, when 60 people get sick from a preventable disease, when our heroes and their families are needlessly suffering, then Rauner isn’t getting it right,” Stratton said. “Instead of taking charge and fixing the problem, Rauner has ducked accountability and let this issue fester.”

Rauner has come under fire for the spread of Legionnaires disease, a type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, at the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy. The outbreak, which began in 2015, has killed 13 veterans at the home and though there have been efforts to curtail the spread of the disease, there was a fourth case reported Tuesday. Rauner’s “fatal mismanagement” of the toxic situation at the home has led to the deaths of veterans, Stratton said. […]

Pritzker said he wants an independent investigation of the Quincy home, and for work to be completed on the Northwest Side facility.

“The obligation we have to these heroes and to their families is sacred,” Pritzker said. “To have that obligation so thoroughly neglected is an unconscionable moral failing. … This is what happens when a governor refuses to take charge.”

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