Christian Mitchell, former state representative and deputy governor, has been named Gov. JB Pritzker’s running mate in the 2026 Illinois gubernatorial race.
Gov. JB Pritzker is running for a third term.
The Democrat made it official last week, becoming the first Illinois governor since Jim Thompson in 1982 to seek three straight terms. Pritzker, who first won in 2018 and cruised to reelection in 2022, says his focus remains on leading the state, even as talk of a Presidential run continues to swirl.
His first campaign move: naming Christian Mitchell as his pick for lieutenant governor.
Mitchell, 38, is no stranger to state politics. He’s worked alongside Pritzker in Springfield and represented parts of Chicago in the General Assembly. Here are five things to know about him:
- He’s held the levers of state power.
Mitchell served as state representative for Illinois’ 26th District from 2013 to 2019. He backed policies supporting reproductive rights, labor protections, and education funding reform. After that, he became a deputy governor, helping shape major state initiatives on infrastructure, energy, and safety.
- He comes from the South Side.
Raised by a single mother in Chicago, Mitchell credits his upbringing for shaping his values. He began his career as a community organizer with Southsiders Organized for Unity and Liberation before entering politics.
- He helped push through big-ticket legislation.
As deputy governor, Mitchell had a hand in the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois capital plan, the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, and the state’s assault weapons ban. During the pandemic, he helped manage Illinois’ emergency supply chain, including the procurement of PPE for hospitals.
- He serves in the military.
Inspired by his grandfather’s Army service, Mitchell joined the Illinois Air National Guard in 2023. He’s now a reserve officer. His campaign says his military role does not imply endorsement from the Department of Defense.
- He bridges government and academia.
Mitchell now works as Vice President for Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago. He leads efforts to strengthen community partnerships, government relations, and economic opportunity on the South Side.
Pritzker called Mitchell “a proven problem-solver who knows how to turn big ideas into concrete results.”
As the 2026 race gets underway, Pritzker brings name recognition and a deep war chest. Republicans, meanwhile, are expected to center their campaign on rising costs, crime, and state spending.
About Post Author
