Pritzker says he was ‘incredibly lucky’ to win $1.4 million playing cards in Las Vegas

CHICAGO (WTVO) — Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker recently disclosed a $1.4 million windfall from a single trip to Las Vegas, where he says he got “incredibly lucky” playing cards.

The revelation, part of his 2024 tax filings, has drawn sharp criticism from Republican lawmakers who argue the billionaire governor is disconnected from the financial realities of the everyday Illinoisans he serves.

According to documents obtained by the Chicago Tribune, Pritzker and his wife MK reported more than $10 million in income last year, including the gambling winnings. The couple paid approximately $30.2 million in federal taxes and $4.5 million in state taxes. 

Speaking to reporters after an unrelated event in Chicago, Pritzker described the Vegas trip as a stroke of luck.

“It all happened over one trip,” he said. “Anybody who’s played cards in a casino knows you often play for too long and lose whatever it is that you’ve won. I was fortunate enough to have to leave before that happened”. 

Republican lawmakers commented on the news during the fall veto session in Springfield. State Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) remarked that Pritzker’s fortune began long before the playing the odds

“He inherited wealth, came into office during a time of federal bailouts, and now wins $1.4 million in Vegas,” Davidsmeyer said. “That sounds like a dream to my constituents, but it’s not something they can relate to”.

Rep. Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) echoed the sentiment, saying the governor’s lifestyle underscores a broader disconnect. “He’s never had to work three jobs to make ends meet,” Keicher said. “He doesn’t understand what a zero balance in a checking account means. That’s troubling for taxpayers, especially since he’s raised taxes every year he’s been in office”.

When asked by The Center Square whether progressive figures like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez could use his wealth against him in a potential 2028 presidential bid, Pritzker responded cautiously. “People know I’ve been very fortunate in my life,” he said. “If they want to use that in a campaign, I don’t know. Right now, I’m focused on running for reelection as governor”.