Harris secures Pritzker endorsement — effectively clearing the path to the nomination

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for president on Monday morning, all but clearing the field of potential challengers to her running at the top of the Democratic ticket.

“I am proud to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for president of the United States,” Pritzker said in a statement. He then veered into attacking Donald Trump, which is familiar terrain for the surrogate of President Joe Biden.

“Since I launched my first campaign for Governor in 2017, I have made it clear in virtually every political speech and statement the absolute necessity of beating Donald Trump at the ballot box,” Pritzker said in his statement. “Donald Trump is a convicted felon, liable for sexual assault, and a congenital liar. He is a man wholly unfit for the office of the presidency both in character and temperament. We must defeat him and his MAGA allies at every level this November.”

Pritzker said he spoke to Harris and explained why he didn’t jump on the bandwagon to endorse her on Sunday.

“I told her that President Biden’s selfless decision came as a genuine surprise. I have worked hard during my time as governor of Illinois to try and bring a sober and mature approach to decision-making. It’s important to be thoughtful about what’s next for the Democratic Party and for the country, which is why I spent hours yesterday talking to fellow leaders in our Party getting and giving input about the road to victory in November. I am also cognizant of the unique role we play here in Illinois as hosts of the Democratic National Convention.”

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, also rumored to be in contention for the ticket, endorsed Harris in statements released on Monday as well.