Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker spoke with ABC News on Sunday about artificial intelligence, the midterm elections, and his political future. The interview aired on "This Week" with co-anchor Jonathan Karl.
Pritzker used strong language to describe the risks of AI. He said the technology is dangerous "on the level of nuclear weapons."
He argued that AI regulation cannot be left to individual states. Pritzker said the effort needs to be national and international, done together with allies.
Illinois Law and Federal Calls
Pritzker referenced a law he signed in Illinois this past July. The law requires AI companies to run yearly third-party audits of their safety plans.
Companies must also report safety incidents to the state under that law. Pritzker said he wants Congress to treat federal AI rules as a top priority.
He contrasted his approach with President Donald Trump's stance. Trump has called AI fears a "hoax" and said he plans to form an "AI Force" to grow the industry.
Pritzker said that approach is a mistake. He said AI has already shown "breakouts" that developers don't fully control.
Still, Pritzker did not call for banning AI outright. He said the goal should be keeping it from getting out of control, not shutting it down.
He also distanced himself from a proposal by Sen. Bernie Sanders to ban superintelligence entirely. Pritzker said that ban would not be achievable since AI already exists widely.
Midterm Messaging and 2028 Speculation
The interview also touched on midterm election strategy. Pritzker pushed back on VP JD Vance, who recently asked voters to "give us another chance" during a podcast appearance.
Pritzker said Republicans have had enough chances already. He said it's time to hand Congress back to Democrats to check the administration.
He described the Democratic Party's midterm message as focused on lowering costs. That includes raising the minimum wage, according to Pritzker.
Polls show Democrats favored to retake the House in November. Pritzker said voters remain distrustful of government overall, and regaining that trust depends on delivering results.
Asked about a possible 2028 presidential run, Pritzker did not rule it out. He said Democrats have a strong group of potential candidates to choose from.
His current term as governor runs through 2029. Pritzker said the party has "the best bench" it has had in years.
The interview aired as AI regulation continues to draw attention from lawmakers in both parties. Pritzker's comments add to a growing national conversation ahead of the midterms.
