War of words reignites with Trump, Pritzker, Bailey
(The Center Square) – President Donald Trump has resumed his war of words with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who responded by criticizing Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey.
The president was asked during an event outside the White House on Tuesday about possibly endorsing Bailey against Pritzker.
“I like Darren Bailey. J.B. Pritzker is a slob of a governor. You know, he could call me and I’d send the National Guard in. Chicago would have no crime,” Trump said.
Pritzker’s gubernatorial campaign released a statement in response, saying Darren Bailey twists himself into a pretzel to avoid his own record and hide his admiration for Trump.
The president and the governor have repeatedly exchanged insults since Trump returned to the White House in January 2025. Pritzker is expected to run for president in 2028.
The governor spoke in Normal on Tuesday and was asked about the president’s statement that he liked Bailey.
“Well, I know Darren Bailey and Donald Trump are BFFs, and so that’s what Donald Trump is reflecting. They really are close. And you know, I think it’s sad that Darren Bailey is unwilling and unable to stand up and criticize the president’s war in Iran,” Pritzker said.
Bailey said Illinois taxpayers have had enough of Pritzker.
“He’s scared to death of his future because we all know that his aspiration is to run as president, so I’ve got plenty to do to criticize him right here at home,” Bailey told The Center Square.
Bailey said he’s running for governor, not president. The GOP candidate said Pritzker is not offering relief to the people of Illinois because he lives in a different world.
Showers And Thunderstorms Likely
Latest News Stories
Public Health Committee Chair Demands Animal Control Agreements for Crete, Monee
Public Works Committee Considers Taking Over Kankakee County Line Road to Expedite Bridge Repairs
Peotone Man Charged With Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Damage at New Lenox Target
Executive Committee: Update to Land Resource Management Plan; Solar Farms and Rural Zoning Dominate Discussion
Will County Committee Adds Path to Citizenship Support to Federal Agenda
Health Department Outlines Major Reduction in Consensus Vaccine Schedule
Public Works Committee Forwards Condemnation Proceedings for Francis and Marley Road Improvements
Finance Committee: Scholarship Tax Credit Discussion Halts
Will County Health Department Reports Rise in Respiratory Illnesses, Updates on Facility Issues
Public Works Committee Delays Vote on State Police License Plate Cameras Amid Privacy Concerns
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Frankfort School District 157-C for Nov. 2025
Flint Man Charged with 1988 Murder of Wife Joan Bernal Following Cold Case Breakthrough
