UPDATE: Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has just revealed a stunning $1.4 million gambling profit from a trip to Las Vegas last year, according to recently disclosed tax records. This revelation comes at a time when Pritzker is being touted as a possible candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
The governor shared that the impressive earnings stemmed from a single session of blackjack during a private vacation with family and close friends. At a press briefing earlier today, Pritzker described this windfall as a rare stroke of luck, saying, “Anyone who has ever been to a casino knows the house wins, and I was fortunate enough to quit while I was ahead.”
Pritzker, who accrued his wealth through the Hyatt hotel empire, stated that he plans to donate the amount remaining after taxes to charity organizations. While his campaign did not specify which causes would benefit, it highlighted his long-standing commitment to philanthropy. Notably, Pritzker founded the Chicago Poker Challenge, which has raised millions for the Illinois Holocaust Museum and other civil rights initiatives.
In 2024, he and his wife donated $3.3 million to various charities, showcasing a strong record of social contribution. Recent government documents revealed that the couple had an adjusted gross income of $10.7 million last year. Pritzker, who does not take a salary as governor, clarified that his income is derived from family trusts managed independently of his political role.
The timing of this gambling revelation is significant as Pritzker continues to solidify his national profile. Since taking office in 2019, he has emerged as a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, opposing the deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago and asserting that the Trump administration is undermining state power. Even in the face of Trump’s provocative calls for his arrest, Pritzker has remained steadfast, positioning himself as a defender of democratic values and state rights.
Political analysts suggest that Pritzker’s blend of financial resources, leadership experience, and outspoken anti-Trump rhetoric could make him a formidable contender in the upcoming Democratic primaries. Recently, he has invested heavily in Democratic campaigns across the nation, including significant contributions to the 2024 Democratic National Convention scheduled to be held in Chicago, as well as various judicial races.
When questioned about whether his Las Vegas win had reignited his interest in gambling, Pritzker smiled and indicated that while he enjoys card games, he encourages Illinois residents to place their bets locally. “If people are going to test their luck, it’s best to do it in Illinois and support our state’s economy,” he stated.
As this story unfolds, observers will be keen to see how Pritzker’s gambling success impacts both his political ambitions and charitable endeavors. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.