Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Critiques GOP Midterm Convention in Dallas

DALLAS — Democratic Governor JB Pritzker of Illinois is urging voters to disregard the Republican Party's first-ever midterm convention. "Voters can see through the BS that Republicans are spewing," Pritzker stated at a Democratic National Committee-hosted news conference across the street from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, where the Republican convention is taking place. With less than two months until the midterm elections and early voting approaching, President Donald Trump and the GOP commenced their convention on Wednesday as they seek to maintain control of Congress. The GOP's strategy for the convention is to energize their base and enhance turnout in critical races that will influence Congressional control. Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Joe Gruters emphasized, "We are putting the president on the ballot. That's exactly what we're doing with this midterm convention." Pritzker, who is considered a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election, criticized the two-day GOP event. He remarked, "This bizarre Republican midterm convention here can't paper over the fact that Republicans have done nothing to earn your vote." He added that Trump is attempting to distract voters from the challenges posed by his policies, including the impact of his trade war on grocery costs and the effects of his foreign policies on farmers. Pritzker also accused Republicans of trying to manipulate the midterm elections, claiming that Trump aims to use the U.S. Postal Service to limit mail-in voting. He asserted, "Republicans know that they can't win on the merits of their unpopular policies. So, they're working to rig the 2026 election." Pritzker warned that if Democrats do not succeed in the upcoming election, future elections may be compromised. The White House has defended Trump's executive order on mail-in voting as a measure to ensure secure elections. Pritzker, who is running for re-election in Illinois, is viewed as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race. When asked if his visit to Dallas signals a 2028 bid, he stated, "I care a great deal about what happens in Texas. Voters everywhere in the country should care about what happens in Texas. So, I'm pleased to be here for that reason. If I can advance the cause, that's why I should stand here."