Illinois Governor JB Pritzker won over $1.4 million gambling in Las Vegas last year, a figure revealed in federal tax filings released by his campaign. The win, reportedly achieved while playing blackjack during a vacation with his wife and friends, will be donated to charity. Pritzker, a billionaire and potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender, described the experience as “incredibly lucky,” emphasizing that it occurred over a single trip. The governor has a history of supporting charitable poker events, including the Chicago Poker Challenge, which has raised millions for the Holocaust Museum and civil rights causes.
Pritzker’s 2024 tax filings reveal an adjusted gross income exceeding $10 million, with a net worth estimated at $3.7 billion, derived primarily from his inheritance as part of the Hyatt Hotels fortune. Despite his wealth, Pritzker does not draw a salary as governor and has placed his assets in a blind trust.
The news also coincides with Illinois’ continued focus on gaming and tourism, with the governor encouraging visitors to explore the state’s casinos. Additionally, Illinois recently implemented new regulations designed to improve consumer protection in gambling advertising. These measures include stricter limits on promotional content, prohibiting placement in areas accessible to minors or vulnerable individuals, and banning messaging on university campuses and academic media outlets.
The Illinois Gaming Board’s introduction of a per-wager tax has further emphasized the state’s commitment to ethical gaming practices, with DraftKings and FanDuel contributing nearly $4 million in July alone. Pritzker’s high-profile win shines a spotlight on the state’s growing gaming market, responsible gambling practices, and charitable engagement, offering a unique intersection of entertainment, regulation, and social responsibility.
