Mayor Cavalier Johnson - Democratic Mayors

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson delivered his State of the City Address under the theme “The Year of Housing,” centered on a simple belief that everything begins at home. He framed his agenda around three core priorities: housing affordability, housing availability, and housing quality, emphasizing that safe and stable homes are foundational to strong families, neighborhoods, and a thriving city.

Mayor Johnson pointed to visible progress already underway, highlighting transformative developments such as the Historic Garfield Apartments and ThriveOn King as examples of community-centered investments taking shape. He noted that millions in city support have helped move projects forward in neighborhoods with strong resident engagement, shaping outcomes. The Mayor also noted a shift in policy to support more middle-market and workforce housing, helping to ensure affordability across income levels as the city continues to add new units and respond to changing market conditions.

Beyond housing, Mayor Johnson underscored broader progress across the city, including continued improvements in public safety and economic development. In 2025, serious crime declined by 17% and violent crime dropped by 22%, with decreases in robbery, assault, and auto theft, alongside ongoing efforts to address gun violence. He also highlighted support for small businesses through commercial revitalization grants, with more than $1 million in city funding leveraging $10 million in investment to strengthen local corridors, create jobs, and build Milwaukee’s economic future.

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

More State of the City Addresses

Detroit, Michigan

Mayor Mary Sheffield

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield delivered her first State of the City Address, outlining a vision centered on lowering the cost of living, expanding homeownership, investing in families, and improving city services. She framed her agenda around making Detroit a more affordable, safer, and more opportunity-filled city, with a focus on growing population, supporting working families, and strengthening neighborhoods.

Lima, Ohio

Mayor Sharetta Smith

Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith delivered her State of the City Address in a new format, transforming her traditional remarks into a community-centered conversation that brought residents, city leaders, and local partners together to answer the questions that matter most. Her address was built around questions submitted by residents, covering topics including public safety, infrastructure, housing, economic development, and family stability.

Lasing , Michigan

Mayor Andy Schor

Mayor Andy Schor delivered his State of the City Address in a new talk-show-style format, “The Lansing Show,” turning his remarks into a conversation centered on progress and the people behind it. Framed around creating “a Lansing for the future,” he highlighted key priorities including housing, tourism, economic development, infrastructure, community investments, public safety, and city services.