Illinois Governor Vows to Protect Vulnerable Residents from Trump: 'You Come for My People, You Come Through Me'

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker addressed President-elect Donald Trump's win against Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday, pledging to do everything he can in order to protect his constituents.

"People have often said that I'm a happy warrior, and I've always taken seriously my role as a happy warrior on behalf of this state. Even today, when I'm struggling with many of the difficult questions this election poses, my optimism for the future remains undiminished," Pritzker said during a press conference.

"To anyone who intends to come take away the freedom and opportunity and dignity of Illinoisans: I would remind you that a happy warrior is still a warrior," he continued. "You come for my people, you come through me."

Prtizker, who was heavily involved in the campaign supporting Harris' presidential bid, had frequently criticized the President-elect in the past, particularly in regards to the Jan. 6 Capitol riots that many argue Trump had a large role in inciting.

"Donald Trump has incited a violent coup attempt. And his enablers share responsibility for this, pure and simple," he wrote to X (formerly Twitter) on the day of the Capitol riots.

"January 6th will forever live on as one of the most shameful days in United States history. But, our nation is one of resilience—and our democracy will never buckle to fascist attacks," he wrote two years later.

The Illinois Governor also echoed his sentiments in promising to protect his constituents on social media.

"While I was surprised by Tuesday's results, I wasn't unprepared. The GA and I have protected Illinoisans from the damage Trump may attempt to cause," he wrote. "We've enshrined reproductive rights, built a path to a clean energy future, reaffirmed labor rights, invested in tech, and more."

Pritzker, who is being eyed as a potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2028, has advocated for a peaceful and democratic transition of power between administrations.