Prairie State Wire

Ted Dabrowski, a candidate for governor of Illinois, has criticized Governor J.B. Pritzker's rhetoric, claiming it undermines political unity and serves to advance Pritzker's national ambitions. This statement was released in a press release.

"Unfortunately, Gov. Pritzker often uses extreme and reckless rhetoric which coarsens our politics and generates discord – or worse – among our people," said Dabrowski. "He may believe his conduct advances his presidential ambitions. I think Illinois families are ready for responsible leadership that advances their ambitions."

Governor J.B. Pritzker has faced criticism for drawing comparisons to Nazi Germany in his political speeches. In February 2025, during a budget address, he warned that Nazis dismantled a republic "in just a few years" and suggested modern threats could do the same. According to Capitol News Illinois, Republicans condemned these remarks as smears, while Democrats defended them as historical warnings. This language reflects Pritzker's broader stance as a critic of the GOP.

Pritzker's State of the State and Budget address on February 19, 2025, attracted national attention due to its Nazi-era comparison and fiscal proposals. According to WTTW’s reporting on the address, Republicans accused him of vilifying their party, while Democrats praised his warning about authoritarianism. The reaction dominated coverage in Illinois politics for several days.

According to Politico, Pritzker has expanded his national profile through frequent out-of-state speeches. Notably, in April 2025, he attended a fundraiser for New Hampshire Democrats where he criticized "do nothing" tendencies within his party and attacked Republicans. His remarks received standing ovations and fueled speculation about a potential presidential run in 2028.

Dabrowski is identified as a Republican policy researcher and president of Wirepoints. He previously served as vice president of policy at the Illinois Policy Institute. He entered the 2026 governor’s race in September 2025 with a campaign focused on lowering taxes, cutting energy costs, addressing crime, and reforming education. According to WTTW, Dabrowski promotes himself as a data-driven outsider.