Gov. Pritzker vows to protect Illinoisans regardless of what future Trump administration does

CHICAGO (WGEM) - In his first public appearance since Donald Trump was elected president for a second time, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) said his state will continue with its agenda.

The statement comes as Trump performed better in the state than his first two runs for the White House. With a few votes still being counted, Vice President Kamala Harris currently leads Trump by about 8.5%. It it holds, it would be the first time a Republican lost by fewer than 10 percentage points in Illinois since former President George H.W. Bush won the state in 1988.

"Donald Trump will be our next president," Pritzker said. "He won the election and we must all be willing to work together for the common good."

He said Trump's victory surprised him, but he's also ready.

"No matter the storm that we face, Illinois will always strive to make you welcome and safe and protected," Pritzker said.

He cited work he and state lawmakers did to expand abortion and LGBTQ rights, protect the environment and reaffirm labor rights.

"Chaos, retribution and disarray radiated from the White House the last time Donald Trump occupied it. Perhaps this time may be different, but if it isn't, Illinois will remain a place of stability and competent governance," Pritzker said.

As for what's next for Illinois, Pritzker said he's already discussed potential legislative options with his staff. He also spoke with other Democratic governors about their plans.

Calling himself a happy warrior, he did provide specifics. He made it clear, however, he will protect all Illinoisans.

"To anyone who intends to come take away the freedom and opportunity and dignity of Illinoisans, I would remind you that a happy warrior is still a warrior. You come for my people, you come through me," he said.

Pritzker was also asked about his future plans including whether he'll seek a third term as governor in 2026 and/or whether he'll run for president in 2028.

He said he loves his current job and has nothing to say yet about his personal future.

The Illinois Republican Party released a statement Thursday in response to Pritzker's press conference:

"JB Pritzker might as well have announced his 2028 campaign for the Presidency in his deceptive media availability this morning. Kamala Harris had the worst showing of a candidate in Illinois in more than 30 years, and Democrats in the legislature did not grow their advantage despite outspending Republicans by millions personally supplied by the Governor . "Earlier this week, Pritzker touted sending hundreds of volunteers to swing states - states that subsequently rejected Pritzker-style government that has made Illinois one of the most fled states in the nation. "Republicans have established the party of hard working Americans, while Democrats have become the party of wealthy elites. It's only fitting that they turn to another wealthy elite in 2028. "Governor Pritzker should do us all a favor and start his campaign now. We'll be just fine without him."

Despite Trump's relative success in Illinois, Democrats held onto all 14 congressional seats in the state they won in 2022. The party also kept its supermajorities in both the state House of Representatives and state Senate.