East Central Reporter

State Representative Chris Miller of Illinois has filed articles of impeachment against Governor J.B. Pritzker, citing rhetoric that he claims incited violence and violated the governor's duties. This announcement was made via Facebook.

"Governor JB Pritzker has engaged in conduct which, under the totality of the circumstances, constitutes inciting violence which is incompatible with the duties of his office," said Chris G. Miller, State Representative from Illinois, according to Facebook. "His dangerous rhetoric and multiple statements inciting violence will not be tolerated which is why I filed articles of impeachment against him- I'll keep you informed as we learn more about the proceedings!"

According to Miller, who is leading the calls for impeachment, the resolution was filed on September 12, 2025, with backing from the Illinois Freedom Caucus. The resolution accuses Pritzker of using "vile" rhetoric and inciting political violence, which critics argue renders him unfit for office. Reports from Capitol City Now and WAND indicate that House Resolution 466 claims Pritzker's comments following national incidents have overstepped acceptable conduct.

Historically, impeachment proceedings against governors in the United States are rare. Ballotpedia notes that only 14 governors have faced impeachment, with nine being removed from office after conviction by their state senates; others resigned before proceedings concluded. The removal of Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich in 2009 remains a notable recent example.

At the federal level, impeachment is also uncommon. According to U.S. Senate historical records, since 1789, 21 federal officials have been impeached with only eight convictions leading to removal—all of whom were federal judges—highlighting the rarity of ousting elected officials through this process.

Miller is a Republican state representative serving Illinois' 101st District since January 2023 and previously represented the 110th District starting in 2019. His background includes being a third-generation farmer from Oakland, Illinois, with degrees in education from Eureka College and agriculture from Lakeland College. He is noted for his involvement in conservative politics, particularly advocating for fiscal restraint and agriculture.