Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Reports $1.4 Million Blackjack Win in Las Vegas
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s Unexpected Blackjack Win
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker disclosed a gambling profit of $1.4 million from a blackjack session during a private trip to Las Vegas last year. This information was made public through tax records released by his campaign. The Democratic governor, who is considered a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race, shared that this noteworthy win happened during a vacation alongside his spouse and close friends.
Charitable Plans for the Casino Winnings
Pritzker, known for his family’s heritage tied to the Hyatt hotel chain, described the blackjack win as an uncommon stroke of luck. Speaking at a press conference, he emphasized that casinos typically favor the house, and he was fortunate enough to leave while ahead. He confirmed that the entire $1.4 million was won during a single visit, and he intends to donate the net proceeds, after taxes, to charitable organizations.
Though his campaign has not specified which charities will benefit, Pritzker has a distinguished history of philanthropy. He founded the Chicago Poker Challenge, an event that has generated millions of dollars for the Illinois Holocaust Museum and various civil rights groups. In 2024 alone, he and his wife contributed $3.3 million to charitable causes.
According to government disclosures, the couple reported an adjusted gross income of $10.7 million last year. Pritzker, who does not draw a salary as governor, stated that his income derives from family trusts that operate independently of his gubernatorial duties.
Balancing Political Ambitions, Public Service, and a Vegas Win
The revelation about the gambling win comes as Pritzker continues to raise his profile on the national stage. Since beginning his term in 2019, he has positioned himself as a vocal critic of Donald Trump, opposing measures such as the deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago and suggesting that the Trump administration undermined state sovereignty. Despite calls from Trump for his arrest, Pritzker has remained steadfast, presenting himself as a defender of democratic values and state authority.
Political analysts view his combination of personal wealth, leadership experience, and outspoken opposition to Trump as a strong foundation for a potential run in the 2028 Democratic presidential primary. He has actively supported Democratic campaigns nationwide by contributing significant funds, including notable donations to the 2024 Democratic National Convention held in Chicago and influential judicial races.
When asked whether his Las Vegas success had increased his enthusiasm for gambling, Pritzker responded with a smile, expressing that he still enjoys playing cards but prefers that people gamble within Illinois. He highlighted the quality of Illinois casinos and encouraged residents to support the state’s economic growth by placing their bets locally.
