Trending Now - Pritzker Criticizes Mayor Johnson's Lack of Bears Retention Strategy

WHO:

Fox News - Illinois Governor JB Pritzker criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Chicago Sun-Times - Mayor Brandon Johnson and Bears president Kevin Warren were involved in previous stadium discussions.

WHAT:

Fox News - Pritzker stated that Johnson has "no plan" to keep the Bears in Chicago amid stadium negotiations.

Chicago Sun-Times - Pritzker described Johnson's hope for city control over the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority as "typical" for a mayor who has accomplished little.

Chicago Sun-Times - Pritzker claimed that Johnson has not developed a plan for the Bears to remain in Chicago after three years in office.

Chicago Sun-Times - Johnson's previous plan for a domed lakefront stadium required $2.4 billion in public support but went nowhere in Springfield.

Chicago Sun-Times - Pritzker anticipates that a bill allowing the Bears to negotiate discounted property tax payments will pass before the Legislature adjourns on May 31.

Chicago Sun-Times - The Bears plan to decide between Arlington Heights and Hammond for a new stadium in late spring or early summer.

WHERE:

Fox News - The discussions are centered around Chicago and potential stadium locations in Arlington Heights and Hammond, Indiana.

Chicago Sun-Times - The Illinois Sports Facilities Authority was created for the construction of Rate Field and the renovation of Soldier Field.

WHEN:

Chicago Sun-Times - The Illinois Legislature is expected to adjourn its spring session on May 31.

Chicago Sun-Times - The Bears plan to make a decision on their stadium location in late spring or early summer.

WHY:

Chicago Sun-Times - Pritzker's remarks indicate frustration over Johnson's lack of engagement with the Illinois General Assembly regarding the Bears' future.

Chicago Sun-Times - Johnson's office stated that the city has advocated for a publicly owned stadium to avoid burdening property taxpayers.

HOW:

Chicago Sun-Times - Pritzker explained that the state budget process begins in November and is introduced by the governor in February, suggesting this timeline for Johnson to engage with the governor's office.

(UPDATED May 19, 2026 01:37 UTC)

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson for lacking a plan to keep the Bears in the city amid ongoing stadium negotiations. Pritzker described Johnson's aspirations for city control over the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority as typical of a mayor who has achieved little, while also anticipating that a bill allowing the Bears to negotiate discounted property tax payments will pass before the Legislature adjourns on May 31. Meanwhile, the Bears are set to decide between Arlington Heights and Hammond for their new stadium location in late spring or early summer.