South West Illinois News

State Rep. Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona) has blamed Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other progressive leaders for what he called “a toxic political culture” that contributed to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk earlier this month.

Critics, including Jacobs, have condemned Pritzker’s rhetoric, including past remarks comparing Republican leadership to the rise of Nazi Germany. Jacobs called for Illinois conservatives to hold their elected officials accountable.

“Political figures like JB Pritzker, who engage in inflammatory rhetoric—labeling Republicans as ‘Nazis’ and insisting they should ‘know no peace’—must acknowledge their role in the growing violence,” Jacob told Southwest Illinois News. 

“Such rhetoric normalizes political violence, and we must recognize the serious consequences of their words,” Jacobs said. “Our side, along with the reasonable middle, must no longer hesitate to respond to this toxic discourse.”

Jacobs emphasized that ignoring incendiary language from political leaders allows the problem to grow unchecked.

“We can no longer afford to overlook the harmful rhetoric from misguided politicians who label conservatives as ‘Nazis’ or a ‘threat to Democracy,’” he said. “It’s time to take a firm stand against the pervasive hatred and calls for violence that have unfortunately become commonplace.”

Jacobs’ remarks come as Pritzker faces political backlash after telling reporters earlier this week that he has “never called Republicans Nazis.”

That claim was refuted by conservatives and political analysts, who pointed to Pritzker’s February 2025 State of the State address, in which he compared the Trump administration’s early days to the timeline of Adolf Hitler’s rise to power.

"The authoritarian playbook is laid bare here: They point to a group of people who don’t look like you and tell you to blame them for your problems,” Pritzker said. “If you think I’m overreacting and sounding the alarm too soon, consider this: It took the Nazis one month, three weeks, two days, eight hours, and 40 minutes to dismantle a constitutional republic."

While Pritzker avoided explicitly labeling Republicans as Nazis, critics argue the implication was clear and inflammatory.

“It's astonishing that proponents of lockdowns and vaccine mandates would dare to label small government Republicans as fascists,” Jacobs said. “The constant repetition of these falsehoods creates a dangerous narrative that can incite violence. We must actively challenge these inaccuracies before they lead to further harm, ensuring that voters understand the ramifications of such rhetoric.”

The backlash against Pritzker intensified after the Sept. 10 assassination of Kirk, the co-founder of Turning Point USA.

Born and raised in the Chicago suburbs, Kirk helped build a $92 million conservative youth organization and was known for his defense of free speech and frequent references to his Illinois roots.

Kirk is survived by his wife, Erika, and their two young children. His funeral was held Sunday, Sept. 21, in Arizona, with President Trump and several national conservative leaders attending.

“Hearing about Charlie Kirk's assassination was deeply unsettling and brought to light the severe polarization within our political landscape,” Jacobs said. “Unlike many who shy away from confrontational politics, Charlie welcomed diverse opinions and encouraged meaningful discussions, often challenging others to ‘prove him wrong.’ This tragic incident serves as a crucial reminder of the need for respectful dialogue, a principle that Charlie exemplified throughout his life.”

Authorities have charged 27-year-old Tyler Robinson in the shooting, which occurred at Utah Valley University during a campus event. Robinson allegedly held left-leaning political views and has been reported as living with his transgender partner. 

Robinson also reportedly sent text messages shortly before the shooting that read: “I’ve had enough of [Kirk’s] hatred.”

In comments following Kirk’s shooting, Pritzker placed much of the blame on President Trump, arguing that his language and behavior have emboldened extremists.

In comments following Kirk’s shooting, Pritzker appeared to place blame on President Trump, arguing that his language and behavior have emboldened extremists.

“I think there are people who are fomenting it in this country,” Pritzker said. “I think the president’s rhetoric often foments it.”

Journalist and former New York Times reporter Alex Berenson said “of course leftist anger motivated Charlie Kirk's (alleged) assassin,” arguing that Robinson’s motive was ideologically driven.

Jacobs agrees. 

“Without a doubt,” he said. “The use of extreme and inflammatory language by politicians cultivates an environment that can provoke radical actions. We've seen alarming comments from prominent figures, including the former director of the FBI, which lend legitimacy to violence against conservatives.” 

He stressed the need to hold such leaders accountable.

“We cannot allow those who foster this culture of violence to stay in power; accountability must come through the electoral process," Jacobs said. "Our side's failure to respond effectively has allowed such rhetoric to go unchallenged for far too long.” 

Multiple Illinois Republicans, including Reps. Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro) and Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich), have filed articles of impeachment against Pritzker, citing his divisive rhetoric and what they describe as a pattern of behavior that legitimizes radical political violence.

However, the impeachment efforts face steep odds in the Democrat-controlled legislature. Jacobs encouraged voters to take note.

“It is time for common-sense voters to come together,” he said. “We must hold accountable those who contribute to violence and division, and work collaboratively to vote out individuals who fan the flames of political unrest. It’s time for us to take a definitive stand against the dismissive attitudes that have become far too prevalent in our political discourse.” 

Jacobs called for unity and clarity in public discourse.

“The escalation of hate and violence cannot be solely attributed to political rhetoric; social media also plays a crucial role in amplifying these tensions,” Jacobs said. 

“Elected officials need to exemplify a higher standard in how they utilize their platforms. Rather than engaging in destructive criticism, we should focus on elevating the conversation and fostering unity. This moment demands that responsible individuals pay close attention to the events unfolding in our nation and stand against extremist elements that tolerate political violence. We must reject the harmful attitudes that have led to tragedies like Charlie Kirk’s assassination and ensure that such rhetoric is met with strong opposition.” 

Jacobs represents the 118th District, which includes the communities of Carbondale, Cairo, Grand Tower and Marion.