Pritzker says he’s lost 80 pounds on GLP-1 since diabetes diagnosis

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced on Monday that he has lost 80 pounds since receiving a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes two years ago. He began taking GLP-1 medication, a drug used for both diabetes treatment and weight loss. Pritzker's decision to disclose his weight loss and diabetes status comes after years of avoiding questions about his visibly slimmer appearance.

The governor, who has been a candidate for the 2028 presidential nomination, previously dismissed inquiries about his weight as being "just for health." GLP-1 medication was recommended by his doctor as a long-term solution to his diabetes, which he had feared would require him to take insulin for the rest of his life. Pritzker's wife encouraged him to start the medication.

Within days of beginning GLP-1, he noticed a significant reduction in his appetite. The governor has been exercising regularly, particularly taking walks along the Lake Michigan walking path in Chicago, which has also given him more opportunities to interact with constituents. Pritzker avoided commenting on his presidential aspirations during Monday's CBS interview, instead focusing on his commitment to serving the people of Illinois.

His weight loss announcement has coincided with his increased involvement in the 2026 midterms, where he is leading a political action committee aiming to invest $20 million in Democratic House races. This move has fueled speculation about a potential presidential bid, as the demands of a national campaign would highlight the importance of his health and stamina.