CHICAGO (WLS) — Governor JB Pritzker has announced Christian Mitchell will be his running mate for the 2026 election.

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Mitchell, who has been the deputy governor for four years and was formerly a three-term state representative, will enter the race as a candidate for lieutenant governor. Juliana Stratton, the current lieutenant governor, is campaigning for the U.S. Senate.

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“Christian Mitchell is a proven leader with extensive experience, steady judgment, and a steadfast commitment to Illinois’ working families,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “From transforming our clean energy future and rebuilding our infrastructure to ensuring the safety of our communities, Christian has played a critical role in much of our progress. I couldn’t ask for a better partner in continuing to deliver results for the people of Illinois.”

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“There is no one who advocates 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 established a foundation that’s advancing Illinois forward. I’m eager to build on that progress—reducing costs, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that every community receives 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.”

Mitchell is a graduate of the University of Chicago and Loyola University Chicago School of Law