J.B. Pritzker is rumored to be considering a Democratic run for Illinois governor.
He’s heir to the Hyatt Hotel fortune, and it appears the GOP is taking him seriously. They recently issued a robocall attempting to link Pritzker with imprisoned former governor Rod Blagojevich.
Rick Pearson is a political reporter for the Chicago Tribune. He says optimism of ending the 18-month budget impasse may inspire candidates like Pritzker to run for governor.
"But I think the frustration is even more palpable," he says. It's a frustration that's nothing is working. You have people considering a race saying, 'Hey, maybe I can break the stalemate and get Illinois moving again.'"
He says the early attacks could also be a sign of fear among Republicans.
"You have to wonder if ...Team Rauner basically fears Pritzker in part for Pritzker's great wealth."
Pritzker unsuccessfully ran for an open Democratic congressional seat in 1998.
