Peoria Standard

Jim Rule, Chairman of the Tazewell County Republicans, criticized Governor JB Pritzker's decision to prevent pardoned January 6 defendants from obtaining Illinois state jobs. Rule argued that this move disregards presidential authority and prioritizes a political agenda over the rule of law. He made his statement to the Peoria Standard on February 6.

"Governor Pritzker's decision to block pardoned Jan. 6 defendants from working in Illinois state government is a blatant disregard for the authority of the President of the United States," said Rule. "By refusing to recognize these official pardons, Pritzker is making a political power play rather than respecting the justice system. This move is nothing more than an attempt to undermine Trump and push political ambitions at the expense of American citizens who have been granted a second chance. Pritzker should be ashamed of himself for using his office to impose his personal agenda over federal authority."

In a letter dated January 30, addressed to the director of the Department of Central Management Services and published by Politico, Governor Pritzker said, "The State’s Personnel Code, administered by the Department of Central Management Services (CMS) and by you as its Director, requires the rejection of candidates for State employment who have engaged in infamous or disgraceful conduct (20 ILCS 415/8b.4).... I hereby direct CMS to apply the State Personnel Code and consider any participation in the January 6 insurrection as infamous and disgraceful conduct that is antithetical to the mission of the State."

According to Politico, Governor Pritzker barred individuals involved in the events at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, from state government positions in Illinois. This action counters pardons issued by President Trump. Pritzker's spokesperson declined to comment on this directive. The governor has been considered as a potential running mate for Kamala Harris in 2024 and a possible contender for the Democratic presidential ticket in 2028.

Fox News reported that on January 20, President Trump pardoned over 1,500 defendants related to January 6 events, fulfilling his promise made during his inaugural parade. He signed an executive order from the Oval Office directing immediate action by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. On that same day, outgoing President Biden issued last-minute pardons for several individuals including retired General Mark Milley and others involved in investigations related to January 6.

Rule has served as Chairman of the Tazewell County Republicans since his election in 2018. According to their website, he focuses on increasing Republican voter turnout, expanding party membership, and communicating key issues important to voters in Tazewell County.