Governor JB Pritzker experienced significant financial success in 2024, as revealed in his recently published tax returns. The billionaire, along with his wife MK Pritzker, reported a staggering adjusted gross income of nearly $10.7 million. This figure marks a significant increase from the approximately $2.8 million reported in 2023.
Key Financial Highlights
The Pritzkers enjoyed a variety of income sources, including:
- Gambling Winnings: $1.425 million from casino games.
- Capital Gains: $4.2 million.
- Ordinary Dividends: Nearly $3.9 million.
- Taxable Interest: Over $800,000.
Notably, Governor Pritzker does not receive a salary for his role. A representative stated that the governor’s gambling income was derived from activities in Las Vegas, although specific details about the games played were not disclosed.
Impact of Gambling and Legislation
Since taking office, Pritzker has overseen the expansion of gambling in Illinois. In 2019, he enacted legislation that legalized sports betting and authorized six new casinos. This move aimed to generate revenue for Illinois’s comprehensive $45 billion infrastructure plan.
Pritzker’s Financial Background
Rooted in wealth from the Hyatt hotel chain, the Pritzker family has long-standing financial interests in the gaming industry. Prior to his election as governor in 2018, JB Pritzker held a stake in Elgin’s Grand Victoria Casino. Currently, his investments are managed through a blind trust, which mitigates potential conflicts of interest.
Tax Contributions and Charitable Donations
In 2024, the Pritzkers paid approximately $3.7 million in federal taxes and over $869,000 in state taxes. Their financial data also reflects a commitment to philanthropy, with more than $3.3 million contributed to charitable causes last year. His financial standing places him with an estimated net worth of $3.9 billion.
Future Prospects
As Governor Pritzker seeks a third term in office, he is also contemplating a presidential run in 2028. During his time in office, his reported income has generally remained between $2 million and $5 million, with 2024 marking the highest income year since 2021.
Pritzker’s financial journey underscores the intersections of governance, investment, and social responsibility as he navigates the political landscape of Illinois and beyond.
