Chris Abele is the Milwaukee County Executive. He was first elected in a special election in 2011, and re-elected in 2012 and 2016. He did not seek re-election in 2020.
Official Biography
Elected with an overwhelming 61% of the vote in a special election Chris Abele became Milwaukee County Executive on April 4, 2011. After serving one year, he ran unopposed and was re-elected to a full four year term April 3, 2012. As County Executive, Chris is focused on providing important, effective and efficient services to residents, disciplined decision-making, and making the county more sustainable. He is also focused on bringing civility back to politics. Chris wants to use his position to remind people political labels are not as important as getting things done. He’s proud to work with Democrats and Republicans on numerous issues.
Prior to his election, Chris served for seven years as CEO of the Milwaukee-based Argosy Foundation, where he remains a trustee. The foundation aims to support leaders and organizations that employ creative and entrepreneurial approaches to solving systemic problems. He’s also a highly successful business owner. He founded a successful hospital services business the he sold in 2012 and he still runs a flourishing real estate company, which owns commercial property in Wisconsin, New York and Maine.
Chris is a dedicated personal philanthropist. His philanthropic work has been primarily in arts, education and human rights. Over the past 15 years, his volunteer work has included serving on 31 local, national and international non-profit boards. He currently serves on boards at the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Schools that Can, and the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy at Harvard University. Chris is also an active fundraiser, chairing and co-chairing campaigns that raised more than $150 million. He has received numerous awards for his effective leadership and speaks regularly on leadership, philanthropy and nonprofit best practices.
County Executive Abele is proud to live in Milwaukee with his wife Miriam and their two young daughters, Lauren and Katherine.
Content referencing Chris Abele - Page 4
How Are Our Schools Doing?
Much worse than Chicago’s. And little difference between public and choice schools.
Dec 20th, 2017 by Bruce Thompson
500 Black Tuxedos
Upscale event connects teens with role models and a world they mightn't otherwise see.
Dec 11th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
Walker Retreats From Foxconn Deal
It was supposed to assure his reelection. What happened?
Nov 9th, 2017 by Bruce Murphy
Why I Support A $60 Vehicle Registration Fee
Without new revenue Milwaukee County will be forced to make significant service cuts.
Nov 2nd, 2017 by County Executive Chris Abele
Abele Battles Board on Budget
Once again. Even if it means swapping their old ideological positions.
Oct 17th, 2017 by Bruce Murphy
New Parking Meters Will Help Homeless
Local dignitaries unveiled key-shaped meters that will help fund program for homeless.
Sep 14th, 2017 by Dave Fidlin
Milwaukee County Employees Embrace Health
More participate in health and wellness program, with encouraging results.
Sep 12th, 2017 by Dave Fidlin
Vim and Vigor at The Brewery
Two new apartment buildings are rising up, while another one is cancelled.
Sep 8th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
New Bublr Bus Pass Created
County transit system and Bublr create new pass for both a bus and bike ride.
Aug 30th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
Bucks Top Off New Arena
4,400-pound steel beam symbolizes the peak of new arena's construction.
Aug 24th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
County’s Homeless Program A Success
Based on national model, which found providing housing actually saves money.
Aug 21st, 2017 by Dave Fidlin
More Republican Dark Money to 527 Groups
GOP donors give $1.2 million, Democrats give $824,000 in first half of 2017.
Aug 17th, 2017 by Wisconsin Democracy Campaign
Who Are State’s Dark Money Leaders?
MMAC, Chris Abele, liberal Greater Wisconsin Committee lead the way in 2017.
Aug 10th, 2017 by Wisconsin Democracy Campaign
You Can Balance the County Budget
Abele’s new widget gives citizens a chance to submit draft spending plans.
Jun 30th, 2017 by Dave Fidlin
2017 Juneteenth Day Rocks
One of nation's oldest Juneteenth Days celebrates slavery's end.
Jun 20th, 2017 by Jack Fennimore
County Neglects Parks and Culture
Bucks arena gets millions while parks, museums, zoo decline.
Jun 19th, 2017 by Patricia Jursik
MCTS One Of The Best In The U.S.
Report ranks county transit system 13th in providing access to jobs. County considers growth options.
Jun 9th, 2017 by Dave Fidlin
Sheriff Candidate Lives In Style
Earnell Lucas, head of MLB security has lovely, $621,000 East Side home.
Jun 8th, 2017 by Michael Horne
Save the Sanctuary Woods
Precious nature reserve on County Grounds in Tosa could be destroyed.
Apr 27th, 2017 by Jonathan H. Rupprecht
Abele Blasts State on Juvenile Prisons
State wants 21% hike in fees and more inmates at failing prisons.
Apr 27th, 2017 by Gretchen Schuldt
Don’t Cut State Dementia Care
County execs say growing problem needs continued state funding.
Apr 24th, 2017 by Chris Abele and Troy Streckenbach
County Creating Community Centers
Will focus on black employment, education. MPS may collaborate.
Apr 15th, 2017 by Jabril Faraj
Could Pabst Brewery Transform Industry?
CEO sees new Milwaukee brewery as place for innovative creations.
Apr 13th, 2017 by Michael Horne
7 Election Winners and Losers
Unions, Hmong community and county infighters were among the winners.
Apr 5th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
County Board Okays Bid for Streetcar
Despite long odds against winning, county will submit bid to the city.
Mar 23rd, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
Will County Give Pension to State?
Board approves work group to study state takeover of pension system.
Mar 23rd, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
Barrett Sells Milwaukee to GOP
City has reinvented itself, deserves greater investment from state, he argues.
Mar 20th, 2017 by Steven Walters
Chisholm For Governor?
Will District Attorney run against Walker? DA's son encourages speculation.
Mar 15th, 2017 by Michael Horne
Should County Operate Streetcar?
Board members push -- belatedly -- for county transit to operate streetcar.
Mar 8th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
Who’s To Blame for Pension Mess?
County’s countless expensive mistakes go back at least 15 years -- and still no solution.
Mar 7th, 2017 by Bruce Murphy
Sue Black Faces More Controversy
Former county parks director investigated for management of Arizona Parks.
Mar 3rd, 2017 by Bruce Murphy
Bucks Select Apartment Developer
Up-and-coming development firm will build 90-unit building
Feb 24th, 2017 by Jeramey Jannene
Public Forum For Lake Park Bridge
Public invited to a meeting about the future of historic Ravine Road Bridge
Feb 13th, 2017 by Virginia Small
Legislators Could Trim Walker Budget
Does governor expect them to throw out his bag of goodies?
Feb 13th, 2017 by Steven Walters
A County Agenda For Black Community?
Role of Office of African American Affairs debated at listening session.
Feb 8th, 2017 by Jabril Faraj
Save the County Grounds. Again.
Tosa master plan will destroy rare 60-acre nature preserve.
Feb 6th, 2017 by LuAnne Washburn
New UCC Facility For Women Addicts
Heroin overdose deaths in county up 241% since 2010.
Feb 2nd, 2017 by Naomi Waxman
Sheriff Clarke’s Meltdown?
He threatens to eliminate a citizen, uses vicious racial slur against another.
Jan 20th, 2017 by Bruce Murphy
Symphony Move Huge for Downtown
A big win for the orchestra and Downtown, with a minor impact on Marcus Center.
Dec 20th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
County Closes Lake Park Bridge
Abele administration cites safety concerns, seeks $2 million in private funds.
Dec 14th, 2016 by Virginia Small
New Report Estimates Domes Cost
$64 million to replace or $14 to $54 million for repair approaches. Abele may favor relocation.
Dec 12th, 2016 by Virginia Small
State Democrats Could Sink Still Lower
Yes, they’re at a historic low. But things could get worse.
Dec 8th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
13 Short Facts About The Domes
Domes task force presented with data that reveals much about the popular attraction.
Dec 2nd, 2016 by Virginia Small
Seattle Offers Lesson for Milwaukee
Rather than simply launching free transit, King County creates more sustainable model.
Dec 1st, 2016 by Angie Schmitt
Donor Pledges $1 Million for Lake Park Bridge
But anonymous East Side philanthropist demands closing Ravine Road to vehicle traffic.
Nov 7th, 2016 by Virginia Small
Experts Say County Wheel Tax Needed
14% of residents have no car, need transit system the tax would fund.
Nov 1st, 2016 by Naomi Waxman
The Growth of Journey House
South-side non-profit rescues building, creates place for youth aging out of foster care.
Oct 27th, 2016 by Edgar Mendez
Is a County Wheel Tax Needed?
Abele says yes, board members are opposed. Who’s right?
Oct 25th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
David Clarke the Demagogue
A sheriff who once represented law and order has sold his soul to become a media star.
Oct 18th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Domes Makes Most Endangered List
One of 11 most endangered, says National Trust for Historic Preservation, which could help rally support.
Oct 5th, 2016 by Virginia Small
Chris Abele Unveils Plan to Save Transportation
Annual fee would provide $27 million for county transit and roads. One supervisor already opposed.
Sep 29th, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
Mexico Opens 50th US Consulate Here
A big turnout of American and Mexican politicians with "Trumpism" in the air.
Aug 31st, 2016 by Michael Horne
An “Extraordinary” Frank Lloyd Wright
Terrace Ave. home cost Manpower exec Robert Elsner $37,000 in 1955, now worth $750,000.
Aug 31st, 2016 by Michael Horne
19 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the candidates, behind the scenes. who won, who lost?
Aug 10th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Sheriff Clarke Seeks 50% Tax Levy Increase
His budget request asks for 206 additional full-time positions, a 29% increase in his staff.
Aug 9th, 2016 by Gretchen Schuldt
Can Chisholm Be Beaten?
The DA pleads for help as dark money from outside the county blasts him.
Aug 8th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Alex Lasry’s $1 Million Waterfront Condo
And why not? The son of Bucks owner Marc Lasry has become a MAJOR player in town.
Aug 3rd, 2016 by Michael Horne
Lake Park Bridge Faces Thorny Issues
Citizens narrow options, but funding issue still makes any solution tough to accomplish.
Jul 29th, 2016 by Virginia Small
City Approves Bus Rapid Transit
Nine-mile BRT project rolls forward, but not without strategic modifications.
Jul 26th, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
Black Residents Talk About Police Misconduct
Demands for accountability at listening session of county Office of African American Affairs.
Jul 22nd, 2016 by Jabril Faraj
Schools With Low-Income Students Can Succeed
But they tend to be charter schools. Will Abele use OSPP to create more?
Jul 20th, 2016 by Bruce Thompson
Can MPS Learn From the Data?
Its rejection of the Opportunity Schools Partnership is merely one sign the answer is no.
Jul 13th, 2016 by Bruce Thompson
City Panel Approves Bus Rapid Transit
BRT line linking Downtown and Tosa moves forward, though some decry "the rush."
Jul 13th, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
MPS Creates More Community Schools
New reform comes after school board rejects proposed state OSPP plan by Abele.
Jun 29th, 2016 by Jabril Faraj
Survey Seeks Opinions on Domes’ Future
County asks citizens to complete online survey with nine options for Mitchell Park Domes.
Jun 29th, 2016 by Virginia Small
Does Anyone Oppose Bus Rapid Transit?
The idea is very unsexy, yet has gained amazingly wide support.
Jun 7th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Gun Violence Rally Calls for Change
Politicians, citizens decry problem in Milwaukee, which saw spike in gun violence last year.
Jun 5th, 2016 by Brendan O’Brien
On MPS, Adults Turn in Homework Late
Milwaukee leaders deserve failing grade on Partnership Program.
Jun 3rd, 2016 by Ola Lisowski
Marquette/Aurora Partnership Shows Leadership
New $120 million athletics research center may have more economic impact than Bucks arena.
May 31st, 2016 by John Torinus
Why Federal Court Rejected Archer Suit
Eric O’Keefe’s attempt to punish DA John Chisholm was way thin on evidence.
May 31st, 2016 by Bruce Thompson
How to Destroy a Transit System
County board's free bus ride program triggers huge deficits that could overwhelm system.
May 24th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
MPS Teachers Oppose State Partnership Plan
They demand specifics; Demond Means denies he will “takeover” failing schools.
May 21st, 2016 by Jabril Faraj
Why Urban School Chiefs Fail
The lessons of former MPS superintendent Gregory Thornton’s firing in Baltimore.
May 19th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Seeking The Truth About Zipcode 53206
International group's “portal” will trigger stories, conversations in city’s poorest area.
Apr 28th, 2016 by Jabril Faraj
12 Things Will Decide Domes’ Future
Politicians will decide their fate, but citizens can lead the way. 12 issues are key.
Apr 22nd, 2016 by Virginia Small
The Mystery of Abele’s Domes Committee
Who’s serving on his advisory committee? So far, he won’t say.
Apr 14th, 2016 by Virginia Small
Bus Rapid Transit Meetings This Week
Help shape the future of Milwaukee -- and city transit -- with your feedback.
Apr 12th, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
Who Will Win the Elections?
The turnout will be massive. And could result in upsets.
Apr 5th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
When Progressives Imitate the Right
The Shepherd’s campaign against Democrat Chris Abele is a classic example
Apr 1st, 2016 by Bruce Thompson
What My Opponent is Most Wrong About
Parting shots and closing arguments in the race for county executive.
Mar 30th, 2016 by Chris Abele and Chris Larson
Chris Abele Is In Deep Trouble
A year ago he was a shoo-in for reelection. Now he's in the fight of his life.
Mar 24th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Who Works Better with Other Governments?
Including the city and other local governments? The responses are revealing.
Mar 23rd, 2016 by Chris Abele and Chris Larson
How to Handle Mentally Ill and Homeless
Surprise, the candidates for count exec disagree on both issues.
Mar 17th, 2016 by Chris Abele and Chris Larson
Duel Over the Domes
Abele and county board creating dueling committees to address damaged domes.
Mar 16th, 2016 by Virginia Small
The Mystery of Rebecca Bradley
Who exactly is she? And why didn’t Walker vet his choice for Supreme Court?
Mar 15th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Can Art Museum Afford O’Donnell Park?
Deal sounds almost too good to be true. Here's a reality check.
Mar 10th, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
Who’s Best on Budget and Taxes?
Did Abele clean up mess left by Larson? Or did he use budget tricks, as Larson contends?
Mar 9th, 2016 by Chris Abele and Chris Larson
MAM Offers To Buy O’Donnell Park, War Memorial
County taxpayers will save at least $9 million in non-cash transaction.
Mar 8th, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
Obama Touts ACA Success, Slams Walker
President's visit here hails Obamacare's success, bashes Walker for obstructing increased coverage.
Mar 5th, 2016 by Jabril Faraj
Domes Are An International Star
They are a tourist and architectural attraction. Yet there’s talk of tearing them down.
Mar 3rd, 2016 by Virginia Small
County Pension Scandal Poster Boys
Six veterans seeking re-election voted for infamous pension plan that ripped off taxpayers.
Mar 3rd, 2016 by Bruce Murphy
We Love the Parks
Both candidates say they love county parks. Which has best approach to maintain them?
Mar 2nd, 2016 by Chris Abele and Chris Larson
Is Free Pass Bleeding County Transit?
Controversial free GO Pass for seniors and disabled costs millions, awaits new report.
Mar 2nd, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
Can Larson Beat Abele?
Democratic insiders handicap the race, which may come down to turnout.
Feb 29th, 2016 by Steven Walters
Hundreds Attend Hearing on Domes
Larson says it must be saved; reconstruction cost estimated at $60-$71 million.
Feb 26th, 2016 by Edgar Mendez and Wyatt Massey
County Exec Candidates Debate Transit
Is the county bus system on the upswing or declining?
Feb 24th, 2016 by Chris Abele and Chris Larson
10 Reasons To Save The Domes
Their impact on city culture and image is immense.
Feb 24th, 2016 by Virginia Small
Lipscomb Runs Larson’s Celebration
Chris Larson wasn't there for victory celebration, so county board chair takes charge.
Feb 17th, 2016 by Michael Horne
9 Election Takeaways
Tom Barrett might be in trouble, Chris Abele definitely is. So is Puente.
Feb 17th, 2016 by Jeramey Jannene
How Will Demond Means Change MPS?
New "Recovery District" leader says tough decisions, more dollars needed.
Feb 16th, 2016 by Jabril Faraj
