Governor JB Pritzker is downplaying speculation that his increased national exposure is leading to a candidacy for president.
Pritzker told WMAY’s Patrick Pfingsten on PM Springfield that being mentioned as a possible candidate is gratifying, but there are many other Democrats worthy of support.
“I’m flattered by all of it,” Pritzker said. “I think it’s good for Illinois that the governor is thought of as someone who could be president of the United States.”
Pritzker said scandals involving former State Representative Harry Benton and indicted State Representative Carol Ammons cannot be tolerated. “I’m sick and tired of some of the behavior we’re seeing from some of these elected officials,” Pritzker said. “Personally, I expect a much higher standard to be lived up to by those who are doing public service, and I think the people of Illinois deserve that and they expect that. When they don’t see it and I don’t see it, it’s more than just disappointing. It angers me.” Pritzker called on Ammons to resign, saying she could run again if she is exonerated.
The governor agreed that property taxes in Illinois cause hardships for residents but said with more state money filtering to the local level, local governments should do their part to reduce the tax burden. Pritzker said he has initiated increased state spending on projects throughout the state in both Democrat and Republican majorities. The governor said he is working on reducing energy costs while protecting the environment.
Pritzker is running for a third term as governor in this November’s election.
