Illinois Governor JB Pritzker revealed that he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes two years ago and has since lost 80 pounds with the aid of a GLP-1 medication. The governor, a Democrat seeking a third term in the Nov. 3 election against Republican Darren Bailey and weighing a potential 2028 presidential bid, shared his health journey in an essay and media interviews.

Pritzker, 61, said a routine blood test led to his diabetes diagnosis, with his doctor initially advising that he would need insulin for life. The news, combined with the early death of his father—who was also overweight and died of a heart attack at age 39—prompted the governor to make significant lifestyle changes.

In addition to insulin, Pritzker’s physician prescribed a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, a medication that helps control blood sugar, suppress appetite, and promote weight loss. Since starting the treatment, Pritzker has shed 80 pounds and lowered his blood glucose levels enough to discontinue insulin.

The governor described a transformation in how he relates to food and exercise. “First, the food noise—which used to make me look at my watch and wish the next meal time would come faster—has gone away,” he wrote. He now exercises daily, starting each day with a four-mile walk and enjoying activities like hiking, sports with his children, pickleball, tennis, padel, and jogging.

Pritzker said he had previously declined to comment directly on whether he was using GLP-1 drugs despite public curiosity about his weight loss. He hopes his experience, as a high-profile elected official, can influence public policy and awareness. In 2024, he authorized coverage for GLP-1 medications under Illinois’ state employee health insurance plan.

Beyond policy implications, Pritzker expressed a desire to encourage others facing obesity, diabetes, or related health challenges. Reflecting on his father’s premature death, he questioned whether access to GLP-1 drugs might have extended his father’s life and enabled greater family support.

“If you have struggled with type 2 diabetes or being overweight, I hope this can be the push you need to talk to your doctor again. Evaluate your options. See if a GLP-1 can help you live a much longer life with the people you love and live for,” Pritzker said. He described his health improvements as life-changing and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining this healthier lifestyle.