JB Pritzker sidesteps questions on weight-loss drug use: 'Not going to answer that'
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's visible weight loss has become a hot topic in political circles, especially as speculation mounts over his possible 2028 presidential run.
While many wondered whether weight loss medications contributed to his slimmer look, the 60-year-old leader has chosen not to confirm or deny it.
JB Pritzker avoids question, but calls GLP-1s 'amazing drugs'
During a morning walk with NBC 5 Chicago's Mary Ann Ahern on September 2, JB Pritzker acknowledged his health transformation but carefully sidestepped direct questions about weight-loss drugs.
“I’m not going to answer that question partly because I think there are a lot of people who are on those GLP-1s, and it’s kind of none of anybody’s business,” he said, noting that many use them to treat conditions like diabetes. “And those are amazing drugs.”
When pressed, Pritzker doubled down, saying, “I don’t care. Anybody doing anything that’s good for their health — that’s a positive thing. And this is good for my health. I have kids I want to be around for a long time. I’ve fought being overweight my whole life.”
Nutrition expert warns that the weight can come back
Toby Amidor, a best-selling author and award-winning nutritionist, told RadarOnline.com that the greater challenge is keeping the weight off.
“Once someone loses weight, data suggests that 95 percent of people tend to gain it back within 5 years,” Amidor said. “Even if Governor Pritzker would like to maintain his weight loss, he still needs lifelong healthy habits, including diet and exercise.”
Trump mocks JB Pritzker’s health goals
Former President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted JB Pritzker’s weight. Last month, he told reporters the governor “should spend more time in the gym.” The governor shot back, calling Trump a “bully” and adding that he himself is “not in good shape.”
Pritzker: “The president himself is not in good shape.”
— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) August 25, 2025
He’s rattled. pic.twitter.com/AdAGdqnkcM
Trump has also linked Pritzker’s slimmer appearance to presidential ambitions. “I notice he lost a little weight, so maybe he has a chance,” Trump quipped. Pritzker replied on X with sarcasm: “Thanks, Donald. By the way, where are the Jeffrey Epstein files?”
Donald, thanks for the compliment!
— JB Pritzker (@JBPritzker) August 11, 2025
Let’s not lie to the public, you and I both know you have no authority to take over Chicago.
By the way, where are the Epstein files? https://t.co/PhikjsUkZ2
Pritzker has also urged Democrats to “fight everywhere and all at once” against Republican policies, warning that conservatives “cannot know a moment of peace.”
Trump escalates attacks after Chicago shootings
Donald Trump intensified his criticism following a violent weekend in Chicago that left six dead and more than two dozen wounded. On Truth Social, he blasted Pritzker for allegedly rejecting federal help.
“Six people were killed, and 24 people were shot, in Chicago last weekend, and JB Pritzker, the weak and pathetic Governor of Illinois, just said that he doesn’t need help in preventing CRIME. He is CRAZY!!! He better straighten it out, FAST, or we’re coming!" Trump posted on August 30.
