Prairie State Wire

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has violated Illinois Department of Health guidelines by allowing his daughter to engage in out-of-state equestrian competitions.

Prairie State Wire recently revealed that Pritzker’s daughter, Teddi "Theodora", 18, has been actively competing in equestrian events across the country throughout the lockdown. That's while her father has prohibited Illinois children from participating in most prep sports-- including football, volleyball, soccer and basketball--  until further notice.

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) guidelines for sports were developed and mandated by the Pritzker administration. Under those guidelines, athletes in so-called "low risk" sports, like equestrian, are allowed. But participating in out-of-state competitions is prohibited.

Teddi Pritzker

"Intra-conference or Intra-EMS-region or intra-league play/meets only; state- or league-championship game/meet allowed for for low-risk sports only," reads the Pritzker mandate.

Explicitly not allowed are "tournaments, out-of-conference/league play, out-of-state play.. (or) championship games."

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Teddi has competed in events in at least Michigan, Massachusetts, Kentucky and Florida, according to her equestrian team Instagram page.

By allowing Teddie to cross state lines, Pritzker has violating the rules he created for all Illinois parents. 

On Wednesday, Pritzker characterized the report on his allowing his daughter to violate his state rules as an "attack" on his family. 

"People need to recognize that's inappropriate," he said. "I think people have to understand what I'm focused on is saving lives."

All states bordering Illinois are allowing fall high school sports. In Indiana, which has been playing football with limited crowds for six weeks, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced Wednesday that fans can now attend games at full capacity.

By executive order, Pritzker has complete authority over the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) sports schedule, which he refused to return after the organization requested to resume the duty.