Lake County Gazette

Jay Swidler, chairman of the Vernon Township Republicans, said Gov. J.B. Pritzker is prioritizing a partisan agenda at the expense of Illinois residents, telling the Lake County Gazette that Pritzker’s remarks suggest he would be a “disastrous president.”

"Rather than lead Illinois effectively, JB Pritzker has focused on building his national profile at the expense of his constituents," said Swidler. "His open hostility—saying Republicans “cannot know a moment of peace”—shows just how far he's willing to go to divide and conquer. Illinoisans have paid the price for his leadership through unstable finances and poor policy. Elevating him to the presidency would be a costly mistake for the entire country."

According to The Hill, during the New Hampshire Democratic Party’s McIntyre-Shaheen 100 Club Dinner on April 27, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker called for mass protests and criticized both the Trump administration and fellow Democrats he described as ineffective. "Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption. But I am now," Pritzker said. He further said that Republicans "cannot know a moment of peace" and urged opposition "with every megaphone and microphone that we have." He added, "We must castigate them on the soapbox and then punish them at the ballot box," referring to GOP members as "quislings and cowards."

Fox News reported that Governor Pritzker visited New Hampshire to headline the state Democratic Party’s largest annual fundraiser, drawing attention as a potential 2028 presidential contender. According to Fox News, Pritzker is known for his strong criticism of President Trump’s actions. He emphasized readiness for political challenges by describing the country’s current situation as a "constitutional crisis." Although Pritzker has not confirmed any future political plans, he is noted as being the first Democrat to visit an early primary state since the 2024 election.

The Illinois Policy Institute highlighted significant economic challenges facing Illinois under Governor Pritzker's administration. The state's unemployment rate stands at 5%, ranking third highest in the U.S., up from 4.6% when Pritzker took office. Illinois ranks low in job growth metrics: 43rd in total job growth and 44th in private-sector job growth. Wage growth has been slow since December 2018, with average wages placing Illinois 28th nationally. These economic issues are contributing factors to many prime working-age residents leaving the state.

Swidler was first elected as Chairman of the Vernon Township Republicans in 2024. According to their website, Swidler aims to boost Republican voter turnout, grow party membership, and communicate party positions on issues important to Vernon Township voters.