Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and his impact on the Democratic party

SOURCE www.npr.org
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker is a rising figure in the Democratic party, set to speak at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. He is an heir to the Hyatt hotels fortune, with a personal wealth of $3.5 billion, and has passed laws to make abortion more accessible and boost Illinois' credit rating. He faces criticism for ongoing Illinois troubles but has also supported initiatives like a child tax credit and healthcare for undocumented immigrants.

Key Points

  • He led the effort to hold the Democratic National Convention in Chicago
  • Supported abortion rights and other progressive initiatives
  • Helped turn around Illinois' financial crisis
  • Received national attention for criticisms of Donald Trump

Pros

  • Rising figure in the Democratic party
  • Wealthy with a personal wealth of $3.5 billion
  • Passed laws to make abortion more accessible and boost Illinois' credit rating
  • Supported initiatives like a child tax credit and healthcare for undocumented immigrants

Cons

  • Faces criticism for ongoing Illinois troubles like gun violence, declining state population, and high property taxes
  • Public employee pension funds remain among the worst-funded in the country