Billionaire JB Pritzker says he's had to overcome his wealth, which would be 'obstacle' in 2028

Writer Mark Leibovich then asked the governor, apparently tongue-in-cheek, "Overcoming being a billionaire?"

The question appeared to "irritate" Pritzker, according to the author, who replied yes, "in a Democratic primary."

In a strong year for Democrats in 2018, Pritzker beat Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner in a landslide, and he was easily re-elected in 2022. 

Pritzker, a scion of the wealthy Pritzker family that owns Hyatt hotels, told The Atlantic his billionaire status would be an "obstacle" to overcome if he chooses to run for president.

"Look, how much money you have doesn't determine what your values are," Pritzker said, going on to list agenda items he supported as a Democrat. "I'm a Democrat because I believe that we've got to stand up for our democracy and against the MAGA Republicans who are literally trying to take away people's rights around this country. It does not matter what your income level is. What matters is what your values are and that's what makes me a Democrat."

Pritzker also told The Atlantic he was disappointed it took so long to develop a strong anti-Trump resistance.

"My complaint is not about regular folks," Pritzker told The Atlantic. "What I've been frustrated by is people who hold leadership positions. And I'm not talking about elected Democrats only. I'm talking about CEOs of companies. I'm talking about boards of universities. I'm talking about people who have influence, who have the ability to stand up but are afraid."