Chicago – Illinois JB Pritzker governor is expected to support his lieutenant governor, Juliana Stratton, for the Senate on Friday, only two days after Senator Dick Durbin said he would not look for a sixth mandate.
Pritzker plans to make the announcement, whose news was shared in advance with NBC News, in an event in the neighborhood of Bronzeville in the city, where Stratton grew.
The support, which will surely include Pritzker financial resources, a billionaire, instantly raises Stratton’s profile in a race that is expected to attract a field full of people since Durbin has kept the seat for almost 30 years. The group could include at least two Democratic members of Congress.
Pritzker, a 2028 presidential hopeful potential, has historically been shy to take advantage of his vast wealth to support his own campaigns, as well as democratic efforts throughout the country. It is armed with a solid political operation in the state, as well as in the political muscle to stimulate Stratton’s possibilities.
“In the last six years, I have had the privilege of working with Juliana Stratton, one of Illinois’s most fierce combatants for working families. He is a proven and stable leader who leads from a place of integrity, pragmatism and dedication,” said Pritzker in a statement. “Juliana’s lived experience has made her a passionate and compassionate defender to do great things. I am proud to call her not only a governing partner, but a true friend.”
Pritzker and Stratton entered the position in 2018 after an election of bruises against another free spending candidate, then Gov. Bruce Rauner.
The two have introduced popular changes in the State, including the protection of reproductive rights, raising the minimum wage and eliminating the State Tax on groceries.
Stratton became the first person on Thursday to launch his Senate campaign, just one day after Durbin, 80, announced that he would not seek re -election next year. He said it was time for the next generation to lead the party.
