Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has ignited a political firestorm after comparing supporters of former President Donald Trump to Nazis during a high-profile speech in Washington.
The Democratic leader delivered a scathing critique of Trump's influence on American politics, accusing him of eroding democratic norms and encouraging violent extremism.
Pritzker's explosive remarks
Speaking to a gathered audience, Pritzker didn't mince words: "When you see people marching with swastikas, when you hear rhetoric that sounds frighteningly familiar to 1930s Germany, we must call it out." The governor directly linked Trump's rhetoric to rising extremism in the United States.
Defending democratic values
Pritzker positioned himself as a defender of American democracy, stating: "We cannot stand by while authoritarian forces try to rewrite history and undermine our institutions." His comments come amid growing concerns about political violence and the health of US democratic processes.
Political reactions
The governor's remarks have drawn swift condemnation from Republican figures, who accuse him of inflammatory rhetoric. Meanwhile, progressive groups have largely praised Pritzker for what they see as a necessary stand against extremism.
Political analysts suggest this speech positions Pritzker as a potential future national leader for the Democratic Party, though it risks alienating moderate voters.
