Blagojevich: Pritzker Dropped the Ball
Rod Blagojevich did not hold back. He told Fox & Friends Weekend that Governor JB Pritzker was outmaneuvered as the Bears weigh a move to Indiana. Blagojevich called it “gubernatorial malpractice” and pointed to a pattern of big businesses leaving Illinois. Love him or loathe him Blagojevich drives home a clear point: when a state fails to act the marketplace notices.
Indiana Moves Fast to Woo the Bears
An Indiana House panel approved legislation to help finance a potential new stadium near Wolf Lake in Hammond just over the Illinois border. Lawmakers in Indiana moved quickly once the Bears signaled interest. That speed matters. Teams and owners notice which states roll out the welcome mat and which states offer excuses and higher taxes.
Money Matters: Taxes and Incentives
Blagojevich and others say high Illinois taxes are a big reason for the flirtation with Indiana. Governor Mike Braun says the Bears reached out to Indiana months ago after being rebuffed in Illinois. When civic leaders spend more time pointing fingers than cutting red tape the clock keeps ticking and opportunities leave town.
Chicago Leaders Angry but Slow to Respond
Mayor Brandon Johnson publicly pleaded for the Bears to stay calling the team part of the city. That is understandable. Still images of surprise from Illinois officials suggest they were not ready for this. Complaining is not a plan. If Chicago wants the Bears to stay it will need a plan that matches Indiana’s rapid pitch and clear incentives.
Fans and the Future
Fans are understandably upset. A franchise anchored in a city for decades is more than a business. But franchises are businesses. If Illinois wants to keep major employers and teams it must address its high costs and hostile climate toward commerce. Otherwise more departures will follow.
Yikes: Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is visibly upset that the Bears announced that they are committed to moving to Indiana.
“The Bears belong in Chicago.” 😵💫
Losing a thriving NFL franchise is an utter disgrace. https://t.co/HpejjipqaS pic.twitter.com/dy78RqhNse
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 19, 2026
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JIMMY
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