Wisconsin Republicans have responded to reports that former president Donald Trump called Milwaukee “a horrific city” during a closed-door meeting held on Thursday.
Trump visited the U.S. Capitol for the first time since January 6, 2021 when his supporters surrounded the building. He met with GOP lawmakers in preparation for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee from July 15 to July 18, where he is expected to be chosen as the party’s nominee.
According to Jake Sherman of Punchbowl News, Trump referred to Milwaukee as a “terrible city” during the meeting with House Republicans. However, Trump’s spokesperson, Steven Cheung, denied this claim, stating that Trump was discussing crimes and voter fraud in the city.
House Republicans in Wisconsin supported Trump, with varying interpretations of his comments. Some believed he was addressing the high crime rate in Milwaukee, while others thought he was referring to election integrity concerns.
Despite the differing views, Wisconsin Republicans emphasized the need to address issues faced by urban areas in the city.
Milwaukee’s Democrat Mayor, Cavalier Johnston, criticized Trump’s comments, calling him “unhinged” and claiming he was “wrong about Milwaukee.” In response, President Biden expressed his love for Milwaukee, with the Mayor thanking him in return.