NW Illinois News

Mike Koolidge, chairman of the Ogle County Republicans, said Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is a “self-serving politician” whose pursuit of national power is disconnected from the state’s needs and the broader direction of the country, making the comments to NW Illinois News.

"JB Pritzker has shamelessly trampled the needs of Illinois in pursuit of his own ego-driven climb to power, scorning anyone who doesn't toe his party line," said Koolidge. "His vile claim that Republicans “cannot know a moment of peace” wasn't a gaffe—it was a threat. Under his watch, Illinois has bled jobs, money, and hope, all while he delusionally attempts to be a player on the national stage. He's resoundingly out of touch with the direction of our country and culture, and now it's clear he's also going out of his mind."

According to The Hill, during the New Hampshire Democratic Party’s McIntyre-Shaheen 100 Club Dinner on April 27, Governor Pritzker called for mass protests and criticized both the Trump administration and fellow Democrats he described as ineffective. Pritzker said, "Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption. But I am now." He further said that Republicans "cannot know a moment of peace" and urged opposition "with every megaphone and microphone that we have." He added, "We must castigate them on the soapbox and then punish them at the ballot box," while criticizing GOP members as "quislings and cowards."

Fox News reported that Governor Pritzker visited New Hampshire to headline the state Democratic Party’s largest annual fundraiser, drawing attention as a possible 2028 presidential contender. According to Fox News, Pritzker is known for his strong criticism of President Trump’s actions. He remarked, "We’ve got to be ready for the fight," describing the current situation in the country as a "constitutional crisis." Although Pritzker has not confirmed any future political plans, he is noted as being the first Democrat to visit an early primary state since the 2024 election.

The Illinois Policy Institute highlighted significant economic challenges facing Illinois under Governor Pritzker's tenure. The state's unemployment rate stands at 5%, ranking third highest in the U.S., up from 4.6% when Pritzker took office. Illinois ranks 43rd in total job growth and 44th in private-sector job growth. Wage growth has been slow since December 2018, with average wages of $33.63 per hour placing Illinois 28th nationally. These economic struggles contribute to many prime working-age residents leaving the state due to difficulties finding jobs and sluggish wage increases.

Koolidge was first elected Chairman of the Ogle County Republican Party in 2022. According to their website, he is "focused on boosting Republican voter turnout, growing the Party’s membership, and communicating the Party’s positions on issues that matter to Ogle County voters."