Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced Tuesday that Christian Mitchell, his former deputy governor, will join his reelection ticket as the Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor as he seeks a third term in 2026.
The selection fills a vacancy created when current Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton launched her campaign for U.S. Senate in April. Pritzker's choice comes just one week after he announced his bid for a third gubernatorial term and amid speculation about his potential presidential ambitions in 2028.
Mitchell, 39, served as deputy governor from 2019 to 2023, overseeing environment, infrastructure and public safety portfolios12. During his tenure, he played a central role in passing the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act12.
"Christian Mitchell is a proven leader with deep experience, steady judgment, and an unshakable commitment to the working families of Illinois," Pritzker said in a campaign video released Tuesday1. "Whether it's transforming our clean energy future, rebuilding our infrastructure, or keeping our communities safe, Christian has been a force behind so much of our progress."
Mitchell, a First Lieutenant in the Illinois Air National Guard, previously served three terms as a state representative from Chicago's South Side before joining the Pritzker administration32. He managed the state's medical supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic and currently serves as Vice President for Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago2.
The selection maintains racial diversity at the top of the Democratic ticket, with Mitchell becoming the party's second consecutive African American nominee for lieutenant governor1. Political observers had identified Mitchell as a frontrunner among potential candidates that included current Deputy Governor Andy Manar and state Representatives Jehan Gordon-Booth and Lisa Hernandez23.
Pritzker's choice carries added weight given widespread speculation about his presidential prospects. Should he launch a 2028 White House bid, his lieutenant governor would likely assume greater responsibilities and potentially serve as governor if Pritzker won the presidency3.
"There is no one who fights harder for working families than Governor JB Pritzker and I am deeply honored to be his choice for Lieutenant Governor," Mitchell said in a statement4. "I'm ready to build on that progress—lowering costs, expanding opportunity, and making sure every community has the resources and opportunities they deserve."
