Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, a billionaire heir to the Hyatt hotel chain, told Chicago reporters this week he lucked out during his recent trip to Vegas, reporting $1.4 million on his federal tax return in casino earnings.
The Democratic governor revealed Thursday that his winnings came from blackjack tables during a Nevada getaway with his wife, first lady MK Pritzker, and friends. The disclosure appeared on his federal tax return released Oct. 16.
"I was incredibly lucky," he said. "You have to be to end up ahead, frankly, going to a casino anywhere."
The governor's spokesperson said in an email that Pritzker intends to contribute the entire amount to charitable organizations.
Pritzker's fortune stems from his family's connection to the Hyatt hotel business. Forbes ranks his wealth at $3.9 billion, placing him at No. 382 among America's wealthiest individuals.
The two-term governor has emerged as a vocal opponent of President Donald Trump's administration and policies. During a March statewide tour, Pritzker visited University of Illinois researchers facing job losses, farmers concerned about agricultural policy, and older residents worried about Social Security.
At a February budget address, Pritzker drew comparisons between Trump's language and the rise of Nazi Germany.
"If you think I'm overreacting and sounding the alarm too soon, consider this: It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours, and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic," Pritzker said in an interview at the time.
His approach contrasts with other Democratic governors. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pursued meetings with Trump seeking common ground, while California Gov. Gavin Newsom launched a podcast featuring conversations with Trump supporters, including Steve Bannon.
Pritzker has channeled substantial personal resources toward Democratic campaigns and progressive initiatives. This includes a recent $500,000 contribution supporting the Democratic candidate in Wisconsin's Supreme Court race and funding efforts to preserve abortion access.
The governor's 2024 tax return showed total income of $10.66 million, primarily from capital gains and dividends. The Pritzkers paid $1.6 million in taxes on $5.87 million in taxable income.
Pritzker has organized the Chicago Poker Challenge, a charitable card tournament that has generated millions for the Holocaust Museum and Education Center. He told reporters the Las Vegas figure represented net earnings after accounting for losses during a single trip. He declined to specify which particular hand produced his biggest win.
"Anybody who's played cards in a casino, you often play for too long and lose whatever it is you won," Pritzker said. "I was fortunate enough to have to leave before that happened."
Pritzker plans to pursue a third term in 2026. He received consideration as a potential running mate for former Vice President Kamala Harris, though he has deflected questions about any 2028 presidential ambitions beyond Illinois governor.