South West Illinois News

Ed McLean, chairman of the Monroe County Republicans, said Gov. J.B. Pritzker is prioritizing a partisan agenda over the interests of Illinois residents, calling his remarks inflammatory and suggesting he would be a disastrous president. McLean made these comments to SW Illinois News.

"Governor JB Pritzker continues to sideline Illinoisans in favor of his own rise to national power," said McLean. "His comment that Republicans “cannot know a moment of peace” is proof of the deep political divide he's fueling. Illinois is still grappling with the fallout from his misguided leadership and economic missteps. The last thing America needs is to hand him a bigger stage."

According to The Hill, during the New Hampshire Democratic Party’s McIntyre-Shaheen 100 Club Dinner on April 27, Governor Pritzker called for mass protests and criticized both the Trump administration and fellow Democrats whom he deemed ineffective. "Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption. But I am now," said Pritzker. He also said that Republicans "cannot know a moment of peace" and urged opposition "with every megaphone and microphone that we have." Pritzker added, "We must castigate them on the soapbox and then punish them at the ballot box," referring to GOP members as "quislings and cowards."

Fox News reported that Governor Pritzker visited New Hampshire to headline the state Democratic Party’s largest annual fundraiser, which drew attention to him as a potential 2028 presidential contender. According to Fox News, Pritzker is known for his strong criticism of President Trump's actions. "We’ve got to be ready for the fight," he said, describing the current situation in the country as a "constitutional crisis." Although Pritzker has not confirmed any future political plans, he is noted as being the first Democrat to visit an early primary state since the 2024 election.

The Illinois Policy Institute highlighted significant economic challenges facing Illinois under Governor Pritzker's administration. The state's unemployment rate stands at 5%, ranking third highest in the U.S., up from 4.6% when Pritzker took office. Illinois ranks 43rd in total job growth and 44th in private-sector job growth. Wage growth has been slow since December 2018, with average wages of $33.63 per hour placing Illinois 28th nationally. These economic issues contribute to many prime working-age residents leaving the state due to difficulties finding jobs and sluggish wage increases.

McLean was first appointed Chairman in 2016 and has represented conservative values within Monroe County's Republican Party since then. A retired engineer and business leader, McLean resides with his wife on a small horse farm in rural Monroe County. He remains active in civic organizations such as the Mason Shriner Organization and Rotary Club.