US governor wins $1.4m playing blackjack in Las Vegas

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, a two-term Democrat and billionaire heir to the Hyatt Hotel fortune, reportedly won $1.4 million (£1 million) during a blackjack game at a Las Vegas casino last year, according to his recent tax filings. The governor, who has a net worth of $3.9 billion (£2.9 billion) as per Forbes, was on holiday with his wife and friends at the time. A campaign spokesperson confirmed to CBS that Pritzker intends to donate the winnings to charity, though no timeline was provided for the donation. At a press conference on Thursday, Pritzker described himself as “incredibly lucky” and acknowledged the rarity of leaving a casino with a profit. He also referenced his previous charitable endeavors, including the Chicago Poker Challenge, which has raised millions for the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center. Pritzker and his wife, Mary Kathryn, reported a total income of $10.6 million (£7.8 million) in 2024, primarily from dividends and capital gains, with $1.6 million paid in taxes on taxable income of $5.87 million. The governor, known for his vocal criticism of former President Donald Trump, has clashed with Trump over federal actions in Chicago, which he labeled as “authoritarian.” Pritzker is expected to seek a third term as governor in 2026 but has remained tight-lipped about any aspirations beyond his current role.