Government of Milwaukee

The municipal government of the U.S. city of Milwaukee, located in the state of Wisconsin, consists of a mayor and common council.

Beginning with the city's first major wave of German immigrants, the 48ers, Milwaukee, Wisconsin has traditionally supported progressive politicians and movements.

It was a Republican stronghold during the Civil War and, like most major cities, experienced a period of massive corruption and machine-boss politics.

Such was the case when, during the 2004 mayoral election, a Milwaukee radio station received a phone call originating from a number at the Wisconsin Democratic Headquarters in Madison.

In addition to being the catalyst for many civil-rights victories during the era, it also set up a number of community-based organizations that are still active today, such as the Hunger Task Force.

Although a Democratic stronghold, Milwaukee receives a fair amount of attention from Republicans at the state and national levels during election years.

The city underwent a transition from a civil service to a cabinet form of governance in 1988, following the election of then Mayor John Norquist.

He was elected to a full term in 2022 after the previous mayor, Tom Barrett, was appointed by President Biden to serve as the United States Ambassador to Luxembourg.

On April 19, 2022, 12th district councilmember José G. Pérez was elected council president to succeed Cavalier Johnson, who took office as mayor.

They are Elected Officials and Administration; Health, Safety and Services; Arts and Architecture; Business and Development; Judicial and Oversight; and Jobs and Employees.