Pritzker names Christian Mitchell as third-term running mate

CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has announced former state representative and former deputy governor Christian Mitchell as his running mate for his third term.

“Christian Mitchell is a proven leader with deep experience, steady judgment, and an unshakable commitment to the working families of Illinois,” said Pritzker. “Whether it’s transforming our clean energy future, rebuilding our infrastructure, or keeping our communities safe, Christian has been a force behind so much of our progress. I couldn’t ask for a better partner to continue delivering results for the people of Illinois.”

Mitchell, a former three-term state representative and current First Lieutenant in the Illinois National Guard, served as Deputy Governor during Pritzker’s first term.

He also served as the executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois during the 2018 election cycle.

Mitchell began his career as a community organizer with Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation (SOUL) in Chicago and served as a campaign staffer and political advisor.

He was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives in 2012 and was re-elected in 2014, 2016, and 2018.

“There is no one who fights harder for working families than Governor JB Pritzker and I am deeply honored to be his choice for Lieutenant Governor,” said Mitchell. “The Governor has led with courage and compassion, and together we’ve built a foundation that’s moving Illinois forward. I’m ready to build on that progress—lowering costs, expanding opportunity, and making sure every community has the resources and opportunities they deserve. This is about delivering real results for the people of Illinois, and I’m excited to get to work.”

According to the governor’s re-election campaign, Mitchell led efforts on core administration priorities, including passing the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, which made Illinois a leader in clean energy. Christian was also a key force behind Rebuild Illinois, the largest capital plan in state history, and cannabis legalization with a nation-leading social equity framework. Through the COVID-19 Pandemic, Christian oversaw the state’s medical supply chain.

Amid speculation about Pritzker’s political ambition for a higher office, Mitchell would become the Illinois Governor in the event Pritzker should seek and win the presidency.