On Chicago’s Morning Answer, Dan Proft spoke with Republican gubernatorial candidate Ted Dabrowski about his campaign momentum, policy priorities, and sharp contrasts with Governor JB Pritzker.
Consolidating Conservative Support
Dabrowski has recently secured endorsements from former state representatives Jeanie Ives and Tom Morrison, both known for their detailed legislative work on pensions, taxes, and government accountability. He also highlighted backing from major donors, including businessman Dick Uihlein, signaling a rare coalescence of grassroots activists and reform-minded donors behind his campaign. Proft noted that this kind of alignment hasn’t been seen since Bruce Rauner’s 2014 run, but unlike Rauner, Dabrowski enters the race with firmly conservative credentials.
Sanctuary State Laws and Public Safety
A central theme of the conversation was public safety and immigration enforcement. Dabrowski criticized Illinois’ sanctuary state law and pledged to repeal it if elected. He argued that the policy ties the hands of local law enforcement and undermines cooperation with federal authorities. Pointing to sheriffs across the state who have voiced opposition to the law, Dabrowski said many officers feel restricted from doing their jobs effectively.
The candidate also spoke about his recent press conference outside the ICE facility in Broadview, where he appeared with “angel families” who have lost loved ones to crimes committed by individuals in the country illegally. Dabrowski contrasted his stance with Pritzker’s, accusing the governor of fueling hostility toward law enforcement through incendiary rhetoric.
Criticism of Pritzker and Johnson
Dabrowski was particularly critical of Governor Pritzker’s comments suggesting that ICE officers were “disappearing” people, calling it dangerous misinformation. He also condemned the Chicago Teachers Union’s decision to honor convicted cop killer Assata Shakur, describing it as another example of political leaders and institutions undermining respect for law enforcement.
Repeal of the SAFE-T Act
The candidate reiterated his commitment to repealing Illinois’ SAFE-T Act, which ended cash bail and has faced consistent pushback from law enforcement leaders. He argued that both the sanctuary policies and the SAFE-T Act have contributed to Illinois’ reputation as unsafe, and said restoring trust in public safety must be the first responsibility of the state’s next governor.
Looking Ahead
Dabrowski positioned himself as the candidate prepared to draw a clear contrast with Pritzker by prioritizing safety, supporting law enforcement, and reining in policies he says have destabilized communities. With high-profile endorsements and financial backing beginning to align, he argued that his campaign offers Illinois Republicans their best chance to compete seriously in suburban areas and ultimately unseat Pritzker.