SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Governor JB Pritzker has announced his pick for Lieutenant Governor of Illinois.

On Tuesday morning, Pritzker’s office announced that seasoned government leader Christian Mitchell would be joining the ticket, sharing the news through a YouTube video.

Mitchell, who has served three terms as a state representative, is also a First Lieutenant with the Illinois Air National Guard. Additionally, he has held the position of Deputy Governor for more than four years.

Governor JB Pritzker expressed, “Christian Mitchell is a proven leader with extensive experience, reliable judgment, and an unbreakable dedication to the working families of Illinois. From transforming our clean energy landscape and revitalizing our infrastructure to ensuring community safety, Christian has been instrumental in much of our progress. I couldn’t ask for a better partner to continue achieving results for the people of Illinois.”

According to the release, Mitchell began his career as a community organizer on Chicago’s South Side, before going on to serve as a state representative and the first African American executive director of the Democratic Party of Illinois.

“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,” said Christian Mitchell. “The Governor has led with courage and compassion, and together we’ve built a foundation that’s moving Illinois forward. I’m ready to build on that progress—lowering costs, expanding opportunity, and making sure every community has the resources and opportunities they deserve. This is about delivering real results for the people of Illinois, and I’m excited to get to work.”

Pritzker selected Mitchell after his current Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton announced she is running for US Senate.