Illinois Governor JB Pritzker revealed a $1.4 million gambling profit from a Las Vegas trip in the previous year, based on tax records his campaign made public this week. The Democratic leader, who many consider a possible candidate for the 2028 presidential election, stated the earnings came from one session of blackjack games during a private vacation with his spouse and close companions.
Governor Pritzker’s Blackjack Fortune to Benefit Charity
Pritzker, who got his wealth from the Hyatt hotel empire, called the event a rare bit of good fortune. At a press briefing on Thursday, he pointed out that anyone who has ever been to a casino knows the house wins, and that he was lucky enough to quit while he was ahead. The governor stressed that he won all the money in one visit and said he would give the amount left after taxes to charity groups.
His campaign did not say which causes would get the money, but mentioned his long record of giving. Pritzker started the Chicago Poker Challenge, an event that has raised millions for the Illinois Holocaust Museum and other civil rights groups. In 2024, he and his wife gave $3.3 million to charity themselves.
Government papers also showed the couple made $10.7 million in adjusted gross income last year. Pritzker, who does not take a paycheck as governor, said his money came from family trusts run independently from his governor job.
Pritzker Strengthens National Profile as He Balances Politics, Philanthropy, and a Vegas Win
The gambling revelation came to light as Pritzker keeps expanding his national presence. Since he took office in 2019, he has set himself up as a vocal Trump critic fighting against sending National Guard troops to Chicago and claiming the administration was weakening state power. Even though Trump called for his arrest, Pritzker has stood firm, painting himself as someone who protects democratic principles and states’ rights.
Political watchers say his mix of money, leadership know-how, and loud anti-Trump stance could make him a tough competitor in the 2028 Democratic primary race. In recent times, he has poured his own cash into backing Democratic campaigns across the country, including big donations to the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago and several high-stakes judicial contests.
When asked if his Las Vegas win had sparked any fresh interest in gambling, Pritzker grinned and said he still likes playing cards but would rather see people place their bets in Illinois. He noted that there are great casinos in the state, and if people are going to test their luck, it is best to do it in Illinois and support the state’s economy.