Gov. JB Pritzker and his new running mate, Christian Mitchell, downplayed any suggestions that the all-Chicago ticket gives short shrift to downstate interests.

Mitchell’s candidacy ensures a person of color remains atop the ticket with Pritzker in his bid for a third term, as current Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton gives up the post to run for the U.S. Senate seat soon to be relinquished by Dick Durbin.

In Pritzker's video announcement, Mitchell said he got into public service because "as difficult as life can be, I believe it can be a little bit easier if you've got leaders in government who care about working families, making life more affordable, making health care more accessible."