Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker received a big endorsement on Friday as the Cook County Democratic Party offered him their support in the upcoming primary.
23 other Democratic chairs from counties throughout the state, including Kane County, joined in the endorsement, Pritzker’s campaign announced.
“Today, I’m proud to receive the endorsement of Democrats from Cook County and county chairs from across the state,” Pritzker said in a statement. “As governor, I will stand with Illinois working families as we fight for our shared Democratic values. It is time for Democrats to unite against Bruce Rauner.”
Pritzker’s opponents did not welcome the news, with Daniel Biss calling the endorsement “more of the same” for Illinois Democrats.
“More backroom deals and more closed door coronations to replace one billionaire with another,” he said in a statement. “For far too long, families like mine have felt the pain of a system rigged against us, and we’re ready to choose something new. Today’s vote doesn’t change that.”
Several Democratic officials, including Adams County Party Chairman Keith Neiwohner, disagreed with Biss’ statement.
“With so much at stake, the Democratic Party must have candidates with strong records of fighting for the middle class,” Neiwohner said in a statement. “J.B.’s candidacy will be an asset to all families in Illinois.”
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The hotly-contested primary election will take place on Mar. 20 next year.