Lake County Gazette

Illinois Republicans are responding to Governor JB Pritzker's aggressive rhetoric aimed at President Donald Trump. Speaking at various national political events, Pritzker has gone so far as encouraging Democrats to abandon civil discourse and instead take to the streets.  

“Bullies respond to one thing, and one thing only, a punch in the face,” Pritzker said during a March speech at a California LGBTQ convention. “I won’t continue to advocate that we wage conventional political fights when what we really need is to become street fighters.” 

More recently, at a New Hampshire Democratic party fundraiser, he said, “Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption, but I am now. These Republicans cannot know a moment of peace.” 

Several Illinois House Republicans have responded Pritzker's comments, including House Republican Floor Leader Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis).  

“Governor Pritzker’s comments calling for violence against President Trump and all Republicans are unacceptable and wrong," Windhorst said.  

He urged the governor to address political differences without resorting to provocative tactics.

“Governor Pritzker’s rhetoric has crossed a dangerous line... now he calls for mass disruption,” House Republican Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) said in response. 

Assistant Minority Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) also expressed his disapproval on social media. 

“Governor Pritzker should apologize to all Republicans for encouraging harassment and disruption as he focuses on his White House aspirations.”

Pritzker's remarks continue to generate debate about the boundaries of political discourse and the implications of invoking violent imagery in political contexts.