Illinois Gov. Pritzker Says GLP-1 Medication Helped Him Lose 80 Pounds

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said in a CBS News interview that he has lost 80 pounds, or about 36 kilograms, over roughly two years while taking a GLP-1 medication. He stated the treatment began after he was diagnosed with diabetes two years earlier, and he described the medication's effect as significant for his long-standing struggle with weight. Pritzker is currently seeking a third term as Illinois governor and is widely regarded as a potential contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. According to Pritzker, the health insurance plan covering Illinois state employees includes coverage for GLP-1 medications, a detail he cited during the discussion of his own treatment. Separately, on September 20, Pritzker appeared on ABC News' 'This Week,' where he discussed his focus on his gubernatorial duties and Democratic Party messaging ahead of the midterm elections. During that interview, he highlighted raising the minimum wage as a policy aimed at lowering costs and said Democrats nationally are focused on affordability issues. He declined to give a direct answer regarding his future political plans, including whether he would pursue a 2028 presidential run. Both interviews occurred within a day of each other in mid-to-late September 2026 and drew attention in part due to Pritzker's national political profile. It remains unresolved whether the two interviews were part of a coordinated media rollout or separate, unrelated appearances. Broader context on GLP-1 medications' market and economic effects, including changing consumer behavior around food purchases, was reported separately and does not tie directly to Pritzker's personal account. No specific brand name for Pritzker's medication was confirmed across sources.