By Karen Stokes
David Crowley was inaugurated for his second term as Milwaukee County Executive on Thursday, marking an historic moment as he became the first African American to serve in the role for a second term.
Guests, elected officials, County employees and members of the public celebrated the inauguration.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Venue 3, downtown Milwaukee with Judge Joe Donald administering the oath of office.
Pastor Kenneth Lock II, Senior Pastor Evolve Church performed the Invocation, and Former Wisconsin State Senator Nikiya Dodd was the Personal Speaker for the event.
Kyle Ashley, Adult Advisor of the Milwaukee County Youth Commission, was also present, commending County Executive Crowley for his impressive and impactful first term in office.
“He put Milwaukee County on the path toward fiscal sustainability through advocating for the passage of Act 12 and new revenue generating tools,” Ashley said.
Crowley talked about the accomplishments of the past four years and shared his optimistic vision for the future of both the County and the State of Wisconsin.
“Over the next four years, committed to building upon our successes,” Crowley said. “I’m committed to addressing the obstacles that are before us. And I’m committed to ensuring Milwaukee County remains a vibrant place to live, work, and succeed. The same goes for the entire State of Wisconsin.”
“Because here is the deal: What’s good for Milwaukee County is good for all of Wisconsin. And all across the state, strong cities and strong towns are making Wisconsin that much better. That’s why we must keep working together, because we’ve delivered real results and improved the quality of life for those we serve. But again, we can’t stop here. Let us find common ground around the region and the state to advance our shared interests and priorities that move all of us forward.”
Crowley continued, “We know that Milwaukee County is the economic engine of the State of Wisconsin. And I’m working to grow our economy, I’m working to support our workers, and I’m working to deliver prosperity for Milwaukeeans. But as we rise, Wisconsin rises. As we grow stronger, Wisconsin becomes stronger. We know a prosperous Milwaukee County and a successful State of Wisconsin go hand-in-hand. That’s why we will build on our progress. We will continue leading the way.”
“We will fight the good fight every single day,” Crowley said. “We will envision a brighter, healthier and stronger future, together.”
On April 2, 2024, Crowley was reelected Milwaukee County Executive with 85% of the total vote. First sworn into office in May of 2020, Crowley became the youngest county executive in the history of Milwaukee County.