Former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich publicly criticized current Governor JB Pritzker for what he termed 'gubernatorial malpractice' as the Chicago Bears seek to relocate to Indiana. This criticism follows an Indiana House panel's recent approval of a bill aimed at financing a new NFL stadium for the team, which could be built near Hammond, just across the Illinois border. Blagojevich's remarks came during an appearance on 'Fox & Friends Weekend,' where he accused Pritzker of being 'asleep at the wheel' regarding the implications of such a move for Illinois.

Blagojevich pointed to the departure of major businesses from Illinois, such as Boeing and Tyson Foods, as evidence of the state's unfavorable business climate, which he attributed largely to high taxation. He emphasized that the potential loss of the Bears is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend where Illinois is losing significant economic contributors. The Bears' situation is particularly alarming for local stakeholders who fear that the team's relocation would not only impact the economy but also diminish the state's sporting culture.

Furthermore, Blagojevich's comments highlight the ongoing political tension in Illinois surrounding fiscal responsibility and economic management. Pritzker's administration has faced criticism from multiple fronts regarding its handling of taxation and business retention strategies. The situation raises questions about how state leadership can effectively respond to external pressures from neighboring states like Indiana, especially in an increasingly competitive environment for sports franchises.