Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker told Jimmy Kimmel he was surprised by the reaction to his speech in New Hampshire in which he called for mass protests against President Trump. He said now is the time to speak up ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Gov. JB Pritzker on Monday rejected accusations from Republicans that he had called for violence in a fiery New Hampshire speech.

Speaking at a dinner for New Hampshire Democrats that is usually reserved for those about to run for president, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker was sounding like a 2028 presidential candidate Sunday night. Pritzker said he has never before called for mass protests and disruption, but the Trump White House has taken him there.