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

Akron, Ohio

Mayor Shammas Malik

During his third State of the City Address, Mayor Shammas Malik outlined a sweeping vision for Akron’s future centered on collaboration, innovation, and community investment. The speech highlighted major new initiatives across housing, public safety, youth opportunity, sustainability, and economic development, all tied together through the city’s “Together for Akron” framework.

Evansville, Indiana

Mayor Stephanie Terry

In her third State of the City Address, Mayor Stephanie Terry reflected on a year defined by steady progress and continued work to build a vibrant, inclusive community where safety, opportunity, and connection help all residents thrive. Speaking under the theme “Building What Matters,” she emphasized that the city’s progress is driven by people—city employees, partners, and residents—who continue to show up and invest in Evansville’s future.

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Mayor Paige Cognetti

Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti delivered her State of the City Address, outlining a six-year turnaround that has taken the city from the brink of financial distress to a position of stability and growth, while continuing investments in public safety, infrastructure, quality of life, and lower costs for residents. Mayor Cognetti also highlighted Scranton’s financial progress, including three credit rating upgrades since exiting financially distressed status in 2022 and achieving its current A- rating with a stable outlook.