Pritzker Fires Back After Trump Calls Him ‘Incompetent,’ Takes Aim at His Weight

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker found himself in the political spotlight again on Sunday, August 18, 2025, after President Donald Trump publicly mocked his leadership and appearance during a campaign rally in Ohio. Trump labeled Pritzker “incompetent” and took a jab at his weight, a familiar line of attack the president has used against political rivals over the years.

Speaking at the rally, Trump criticized Pritzker’s management of Illinois, pointing to economic struggles, high taxes, and Chicago’s ongoing crime issues. “J.B. Pritzker has been an incompetent governor,” Trump said. “Look at what he’s done to Illinois—it’s falling apart. And frankly, he should worry less about me and more about his waistline.”

Pritzker Pushes Back

Governor Pritzker wasted little time in responding to Trump’s remarks. At a press briefing in Springfield on Monday, August 18, he dismissed Trump’s comments as “typical playground politics” and argued that the president’s words reveal more about his own leadership style than about Illinois.

“When the President of the United States uses his platform to insult people based on their appearance, it demeans the office he holds,” Pritzker said. “Illinois is facing challenges, but we are making progress in rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening education, and working with business leaders to grow jobs.”

Pritzker added that Trump’s constant resort to personal attacks was a way of “dodging real issues,” noting that Illinois has implemented historic budget surpluses and introduced new programs to address crime prevention.

Political Stakes

The clash between Trump and Pritzker reflects broader political tensions ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, where Democrats are working to maintain key governorships and congressional seats. Pritzker, who has often positioned himself as a foil to Trump, is viewed as an influential Democratic voice in the Midwest.

Political analysts point out that Trump’s attack could energize both his base and Pritzker’s supporters. “These exchanges become more than just personal,” said one political strategist. “They are proxy battles in a larger war over the direction of American politics.”

Trump’s History of Personal Insults

This is not the first time Trump has mocked opponents’ physical appearance. Over the years, he has made comments about rivals’ height, weight, or stamina during campaign speeches. Supporters argue that Trump’s blunt style is refreshing and authentic, while critics claim it undermines the seriousness of political discourse.

For Pritzker, the remarks may serve as an opportunity. By casting himself as a leader focused on policy rather than personal feuds, he can rally Democrats around the idea of “dignified governance.”

The Broader Democratic Response

Other Democratic leaders quickly defended Pritzker. Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth said Trump’s remarks were “beneath the presidency,” while Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson highlighted the governor’s work on public safety initiatives. Nationally, Democrats are using the moment to reinforce a message about civility in politics.

Looking Ahead

The exchange between Trump and Pritzker underscores the growing friction as the country gears up for another heated election cycle. With Trump’s rallies drawing large crowds and Pritzker remaining a vocal critic of the administration, more flashpoints like this are almost certain.

As Pritzker summed it up: “Illinois voters don’t want petty insults. They want results. And that’s what I’m focused on delivering.”