Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is blocking Jan. 6 rioters from state jobs after Trump’s pardons.

In a bold move that defies President Donald Trump’s recent pardons and commutations, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has taken a stand against the individuals who participated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. With a written directive, Pritzker has instructed the state’s Department of Central Management Services to restrict the hiring of those involved in the infamous event, declaring their actions as “infamous and disgraceful conduct that is antithetical to the mission of the State.” But why has Governor Pritzker chosen to take such a firm stance against Trump’s pardons? And what does this mean for the future of those who participated in the attack? Pritzker’s directive sends a clear message that no one who attempts to overthrow a government should serve in government, emphasizing the values of honesty, integrity, and loyalty to serving the taxpayers. However, legal challenges are expected, and the directive’s fate may ultimately be determined by the courts. This move by Pritzker marks a significant pushback against Trump’s exercise of presidential authority, which has faced criticism and judicial rebuke in recent times. As a Democratic governor in a Midwestern blue state, Pritzker has long been an antagonist to Trump, consistently opposing his actions and policies. With this latest directive, Pritzker is standing up against the erosion of American democracy and ensuring that the state’s workforce reflects the values of Illinois. While the legal battles may be fierce, Pritzker’s unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy is a testament to his dedication to the people of Illinois.

1. Governor Pritzker’s Directive

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has issued a written directive to block individuals who participated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol from working in state jobs. The directive declares that those involved in the attack engaged in “infamous and disgraceful conduct” that goes against the mission of the state.

2. Defying Trump’s Pardons

Pritzker’s directive directly contradicts President Donald Trump’s recent pardons and commutations, which aimed to offer a clean slate to those involved in the Capitol attack. While Trump pardoned and commuted the sentences of numerous individuals, Pritzker is taking a firm stance against allowing them to serve in government positions.

3. Upholding Democratic Values

Governor Pritzker’s decision is rooted in the principles of American democracy. He argues that the attack on the Capitol disrupted the peaceful transfer of power, undermined democratic principles, and posed a threat to law enforcement officers. Pritzker insists that the state’s workforce should reflect the values of Illinois, including honesty, integrity, and loyalty to serving the taxpayers.

4. Legal Challenges and Best Legal Footing

Pritzker’s directive is expected to face legal challenges. However, sources familiar with the situation suggest that the directive was crafted within the personnel code, providing a strong legal foundation to withstand potential court pushback. While the outcome remains uncertain, Pritzker’s team believes they have taken the most appropriate legal approach.

5. Pritzker’s History of Pushing Back

Governor Pritzker has a track record of opposing Trump’s actions and policies. He has previously pushed back against the former president’s confusing memo that called for a freeze in federal aid, arguing that the U.S. Constitution does not grant the president unilateral authority. Pritzker’s actions demonstrate his commitment to protecting the interests of working families, children, and seniors in Illinois.

In conclusion, Governor JB Pritzker’s decision to block individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol attack from working in state jobs is a clear demonstration of his commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring that the state’s workforce reflects the values of Illinois. By defying President Trump’s pardons and commutations, Pritzker is sending a strong message that those who attempt to overthrow a government should not serve in government. While legal challenges are expected, Pritzker’s team believes they have solid legal footing by working through the personnel code. This move is not the first time Pritzker has pushed back against Trump’s actions, as he has consistently stood against unlawful actions that could harm working families, children, and seniors in Illinois. Governor Pritzker’s directive marks a significant and direct pushback against Trump’s exercise of presidential authority and sets a precedent for other states to consider similar actions.