Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has openly challenged former President Donald Trump’s claim that he was instrumental in choosing Milwaukee as the host city for the upcoming Republican National Convention (RNC).
In a recent interview with CNN’s Abby D. Phillip on June 18, Mayor Johnson expressed his surprise and dismay at Trump’s assertion, calling it a “complete fabrication.”
“The RNC selected Milwaukee. If Donald Trump had any involvement, I would know. He was nowhere in sight. That is a complete fabrication. I am stunned,” Johnson stated firmly during the CNN interview.
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Johnson’s response came after Trump’s public remarks of admiration for Milwaukee, despite earlier reports suggesting he had labeled the city as “horrible.”
The controversy started when Trump, aiming to win over Wisconsin voters, praised Milwaukee during a campaign rally in Racine, a city near Milwaukee.
“I love Milwaukee,” Trump declared, distancing himself from prior reports of his negative comments during a private meeting with House Republicans.
“I was the one that picked Milwaukee. These lying people. They say, ‘oh, he doesn’t like Milwaukee.’ I love Milwaukee. I said, ‘you gotta fix the crime.’ We all know that,” Trump told his supporters in Racine.
However, Mayor Johnson remained unconvinced by Trump’s change in rhetoric. “He doesn’t care about Milwaukee or the state of Wisconsin,” Johnson remarked. “He wouldn’t even stay here. Not even in one of our neighboring counties that produce the most Republican votes in the state.”
Mayor Johnson’s firm rebuttal underscores his dedication to defending Milwaukee’s reputation. His public challenge to Trump’s claims is about more than just setting the record straight; it is about upholding the city’s integrity and correcting any false narratives.
Trump’s efforts to appeal to Milwaukee voters come at a crucial time, with Wisconsin being a key swing state in the upcoming elections. His contrasting statements about Milwaukee present a conflicting narrative that local leaders like Johnson are keen to address.
As the RNC approaches, Milwaukee will be under the national spotlight. The convention will attract Republicans from across the country, bringing intense scrutiny to the city. Mayor Johnson’s assertive stance highlights the commitment of local leaders to ensure their cities are accurately represented and respected on the national stage.
