Politics
Pritzker Tests National Waters in Washington as 2028 Speculation Swirls
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, fresh off a third-term win, spoke at a progressive convention in Washington, D.C., but finished fourth in a straw poll of potential Democratic presidential contenders. The showing underscores the challenge he faces in building a national profile ahead of a wide-open 2028 primary.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, just weeks removed from winning a third term in Springfield, took his national ambitions to Washington, D.C., over the weekend, speaking at a progressive convention that drew several other prominent Democratic figures. But the reception offered a sobering snapshot of his standing in a crowded and still-forming 2028 presidential field.
Pritzker appeared at the Crooked Media convention alongside Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, according to reporting from NBC Chicago. The event, organized by the progressive media company, served as an early audition for Democrats eyeing the White House.
A straw poll of convention attendees placed Pritzker fourth, with 4.4% of the vote. The runaway winner was Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff, who captured 38.4%. New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez finished second at 16.6%, and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was third at 14%. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear rounded out the top five at 3.8%.
The unscientific poll is not a reliable predictor of primary outcomes, but it reflects the name-recognition gap Pritzker must close. National polling averages compiled by RealClearPolitics place him even lowerâninth among potential Democratic contenders, at roughly 3%. Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lost the 2024 election to President Donald Trump, leads that average, followed by Buttigieg, Ossoff, Ocasio-Cortez and California Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Pritzker has been candid for years about his interest in national office, and his travel schedule suggests he is testing the waters. He has delivered a series of speeches around the country and contributed heavily to Democratic candidates in states including Texas and Ohioâmoves that build relationships and goodwill ahead of a potential campaign.
No candidate has formally entered the race, and the first primaries are more than a year away. Political fortunes can shift quickly, and Pritzkerâs personal wealth and willingness to spend on Democratic causes could make him a formidable contender if he decides to run.
For Illinois voters, the governorâs national ambitions raise questions about how much time and attention he will devote to the state during a third term. Pritzker has not announced any plans to step away from his duties, but the balancing act between governing and courting a national base will be closely watched in the months ahead.