Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is trying to secure a third consecutive term in office. On Wednesday, his campaign released his 2024 tax return, filed jointly with his wife, MK Pritzker, and one source of income stood out: $1.4m he won playing blackjack in Las Vegas in 2024.
intends to donate the winnings to charity
Pritzker, considered a possibility for a 2028 presidential run, was on vacation in Sin City when he gambled at an unnamed casino. In a Thursday press conference, he explained that he enjoyed playing cards and was “incredibly lucky” to finish the playing sessions in the black. The 60-year-old intends to donate the winnings to charity.
The California native got his wealth as an heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune and has an estimated net worth of $3.7bn, making him one of the country’s wealthiest politicians. His tax return reported a net income of $10.6m for last year. He does not accept a salary from the state.
Pritzker has been a long-time proponent of gambling expansion in Illinois. He’s backed sports betting legislation, helped authorize new commercial casinos, and has even broached the topic of allowing online casinos.
