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 5
District Attorney John Chisholm earns support of community leaders, elected officials, labor unions, citizen organizations, and law enforcement groups
Chisholm, a veteran of the United States Army, was first elected in 2006 after serving 12 years as an assistant prosecutor, including leading the gun unit.
Aug 5th, 2016 by John Chisholm
Estabrook Dam Removal May Cost County Over $13 Million Dollars
The property value claim alone is estimated to be in the neighborhood of $12 million.
Aug 5th, 2016 by Milwaukee River Preservation Association
County Executive Chris Abele Endorses Jason Fields for State Assembly
“Jason has always been focused on finding solutions, and not looking for fights,” said County Executive Chris Abele.
Aug 3rd, 2016 by State Rep. Jason Fields
County Executive Chris Abele endorses Senator Lena Taylor
“I'm proud to endorse Senator Lena Taylor’s reelection on August 9,” said County Executive Chris Abele.
Aug 3rd, 2016 by State Sen. Lena Taylor
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces 2017 Budget Listening Sessions
“As we do the work of creating a responsible budget for the upcoming year, I look forward to hearing from the public”
Aug 2nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Announces Black Lens Program Lineup
Showcases fiction and documentary films from emerging and established African-American directors
Aug 2nd, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
Downtown Employee Appreciation Week Begins Monday July 25
The opening ceremony well be held at Red Arrow Park from 11:45 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Jul 22nd, 2016 by Milwaukee Downtown, BID 21
International Agreement to Bring Chinese Lantern Festival to Boerner Botanical Gardens in October
Throughout October, the festival’s 40 giant displays will illuminate nine acres of the Botanical Gardens.
Jul 19th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Parks
County Executive Chris Abele Endorses David Crowley for State Assembly
"David has proven his worth to Milwaukee over the course of his career, said Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele.
Jul 19th, 2016 by David Crowley
2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals Second List of Official Selections
Lineup includes Beware the Slenderman and a new sports documentary program
Jul 19th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele endorses Hillary Clinton
"Secretary Clinton is the best candidate to unite our Country and continue moving us forward so that every American has a shot at building their American Dream,” Milwaukee County Executive Abele said.
Jul 18th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Free Pokémon Go Event in Mitchell Park July 23
In addition to the smartphone game, families will enjoy photo-ops and Pokémon-themed games.
Jul 15th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Parks
County Executive Chris Abele endorses DA John Chisholm
“I am proud to endorse District Attorney John Chisholm,” said County Executive Chris Abele.
Jul 13th, 2016 by John Chisholm
Milwaukee County BRT Project Receives Wide Ranging Support from Community Leaders, Advocates, Business Groups and Riders
County Board and Milwaukee Common Council Committees Expected to Vote on BRT This Week
Jul 11th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
4th Annual IndiaFest Milwaukee Returns to Humboldt Park Aug. 20
Experience Mini-India
Jul 7th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Parks
Milwaukee Film Announces Addition of Mark Sabljak to Festival Staff
Former Milwaukee Business Journal publisher and market president joins team for 2016 film festival
Jul 7th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
County Executive Abele endorses Thomas Harris for Senate
“I have known and worked with Thomas for years and I can say unequivocally that he is best person in the race to help us tackle the challenges facing Milwaukee,” Chris Abele said.
Jul 7th, 2016 by Thomas Harris
Republican Takeover of MPS is a Failure
Resignation of Takeover Czar a Victory for Milwaukee Children
Jul 1st, 2016 by Wisconsin Jobs Now
Milwaukee County Chosen for White House Data Driven Justice Initiative
The program aims to reduce incarceration through comprehensive, data-driven reforms.
Jul 1st, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Julie Meyer, 20th District Assembly Candidate, Praises Demond Means’ Decision to Abandon Chris Abele’s MPS Takeover Plan
Julie Meyer is a 29-year MPS teacher that believes the Opportunity Schools and Partnership Program is a threat to the existence of public education in Milwaukee
Jun 29th, 2016 by Julie Meyer
Takeover Commissioner Demond Means’ Resignation a Victory for Milwaukee Students and Community
“We will continue to resist any attack on our community’s fundamental democratic rights that would remove public institutions from the control of our publicly elected school board,” said MTEA President Kim Schroeder.
Jun 29th, 2016 by Milwaukee Teachers’ Education Association
2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Reveals First List of Official Selections
Milwaukee Film announces new Latinx diaspora program and film festival venues
Jun 28th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
Update regarding Opportunity Schools and Partnership Plan (OSPP)
No decision was reached today.
Jun 23rd, 2016 by Milwaukee Public Schools
MPS Board President Mark Sain, Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver issue statement regarding Opportunity Schools and Partnership Plan (OSPP)
We recently requested a meeting with County Executive Abele and Commissioner Means to discuss an alternative to the OSPP proposal.
Jun 17th, 2016 by Milwaukee Public Schools
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Applauds City of Wauwatosa Decision to Advance Bus Rapid Transit
“The City of Wauwatosa is always a great partner when it comes to economic development, public safety, and growing strong communities."
Jun 16th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
MCTS Driver Helps Girl Escape from Dangerous Situation
Chambers is no stranger to being recognized for her good works; she has received numerous commendations during her 12 years as an MCTS driver.
Jun 16th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit System
PrideFest Milwaukee celebrates triumph over tragedy
Community unites for largest LGBTQ pride celebration ever
Jun 13th, 2016 by Milwaukee Pride, Inc.
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces New Bathroom Policy
“As of today, the restrooms in my office are gender neutral."
Jun 10th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Bucks Groundbreaking and Second Annual Block Party Set for June 18
Oscar Robertson, Jabari Parker, Bucks owners and elected officials all scheduled to attend
Jun 8th, 2016 by Milwaukee Bucks
You’re invited to our Opening Ceremonies!
PrideFest celebrates community heroes Friday, June 10
Jun 7th, 2016 by PrideFest
County’s defensive reaction to committee testimony disappointing
Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan June 7, 2016
Jun 7th, 2016 by State Rep. Bob Donovan
MCTS and Summerfest Team Up to Offer a New Way to Get to the Big Gig
Cash may be king, but the all-new MCTS Pre>Fare is a rock star at getting you to Summerfest!
Jun 3rd, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit System
National Gun Violence Awareness Day
Turning Wisconsin Orange to Help End Gun Violence
Jun 2nd, 2016 by Urban Milwaukee
County Executive Chris Abele Statement on Creation of Office on African American Affairs
“I want to thank the County Board for unanimously supporting the mission of the Office on African American Affairs today.”
May 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
County Executive Abele, Dr. Demond Means Make Announcement on OSPP Timeline
"Even though MPS agrees with us that this law is not ideal, we are asking them to be open to a conversation with us about how we can implement the law in the most productive way possible."
May 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Milwaukee Film Announces World Premiere Screening of Milwaukee 53206
Film explores the lives of those affected by mass incarceration in Milwaukee
May 26th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
PolitiFact Wisconsin Issues “Pants on Fire” Rating to Claim that OSPP Commissioner Wants to “Gut” MPS
Did Means really say that? In a word: No.”
May 20th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Chris Abele and Demond Means Miss Key Facts About the Community Schools Model
"It’s important to note that Community Schools are more than community partnerships."
May 18th, 2016 by Milwaukee Teachers’ Education Association
MCTS Mourns the Loss of 9-Year-Old Za’layia Jenkins
Za’layia’s mother works for MCTS in the Customer Service Department.
May 17th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit System
OSPP Affirms Commitment to Community Schools
Some schools within MPS are already utilizing a community schools model, in partnership with the United Way.
May 12th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Milwaukee Film Festival Announces 2016 Campaign Art & Early Ticket Sales
Up to 40% off Festival Passes and ticket 6-Packs
May 12th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
Legal Opinion: OSPP Plan to Preserve Funding for MPS, Protect Our Public Schools Meets the Law
Amid questions raised about the legality of the proposal Dr. Means and County Executive Abele sought a formal legal opinion.
May 11th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
MPS Asked to Say YES to Protect Public Schools
Opportunity Schools Partnership Program Launches Website to Inform Public on Proposal to Keep Funds, Students, and Employees in MPS
May 10th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Hamilton to launch effort to raze blighted properties in Milwaukee’s central city
The new blight-fighting endeavor will advocate public/private partnerships that will demolish abandoned, dangerous and unsanitary properties in the city’s Promise Zones.
May 3rd, 2016 by Ald. Ashanti Hamilton
Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce congratulates Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele on 2nd Inauguration Day
County Executive continues to be champion for veterans and business development
May 2nd, 2016 by Wisconsin Veterans Chamber of Commerce
Community leaders celebrate 40 years of MACC Fund
Wisconsin families who have children with cancer have access to some of the best medical care in the country.
Apr 29th, 2016 by Medical College of Wisconsin
Milwaukee County to Participate in Denim Day 2016
County employees are encouraged to wear denim to work today and to share photos on social media.
Apr 27th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Announces Updates on Domes
Abele also announced the date and time of the first community input session at the Domes.
Apr 26th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Milwaukee Film Announces Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Grant
Festival Among 16 FilmWatch Grant Recipients; Received $10,000 in Cash for Black Lens Program
Apr 26th, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Celebrates Earth Day 2016
Since taking office, the county executive has prioritized environmental activism in every department, from Parks to Transportation to Facilities Management.
Apr 22nd, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Milwaukee County Gets Greener: Brewers Foundation Donates Trees to Milwaukee County Parks
The Parks Department will receive 70 trees representing seven species—catalpa, sugar maple, swamp white oak, Kentucky coffee tree, hackberry, Japanese tree lilac, and honeylocust.
Apr 21st, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Supervisor Steve F. Taylor Re-Elected County Board 2nd Vice Chairman
“I also encourage County Executive Chris Abele, who attended today’s meeting, to work with the County Board to help solve this County’s problems locally instead of running to Madison to consolidate his power.”
Apr 18th, 2016 by Steve F. Taylor
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Officially Welcomes New County Board Members
"This group brings talent, passion, and experience to the County."
Apr 18th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
County Executive Chris Abele Announces That Summerfest Will Join Milwaukee County’s Purple Heart Pass Program
Purple Heart Recipients to Receive Eight Free Admissions to Summerfest
Apr 11th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Honors World Health Day
WHO is issuing a call for action on diabetes, highlighting the need to step up prevention and treatment of the disease that affects 422 million adults globally.
Apr 7th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
County Executive Chris Abele Announces Major Milestone in Couture Project
Federal Transit Authority Concurs on Plan That Will Create Thousands of Jobs, Millions in Economic Development
Apr 4th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Chris Larson to Honor Federal Consent Decree Upon Taking Office
More than 140 current County employees are affected by the 1980 Johnnie Jones Federal Consent Decree.
Apr 3rd, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
“Chris Abele seeks to divide the black community”
Chris Abele’s new campaign strategy is to drive a wedge in the black community in order to score a win on April 5th.
Apr 1st, 2016 by State Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde
Larson Demands Abele Come Clean on Secret Domes Group
“It's time for Abele to release the secret instructions, meeting records, and real mission of his Dome steering committee.”
Apr 1st, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Abele Admits to Secret Ongoing Land Sale Negotiations
Senator Larson calls on Abele to come clean about all land sales, saying public has right to know
Apr 1st, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
County Executive Chris Abele Endorsed by Local Elected LEaders
“I am honored to have this support and look forward to continuing to collaborate with every level of government to improve our community.”
Mar 31st, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Larson Announces First Appointment as Milwaukee County Executive
Says he will appoint Jonette Arms Director of Department on Aging
Mar 30th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
County Executive Chris Abele Announces Major Democratic Endorsements
Democratic Party Leaders Herb Kohl, Jim Doyle and Mary Burke stand with Abele
Mar 30th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
County Executive Chris Abele Endorsed by Municipal Leaders Across Milwaukee County
Chris Abele today announced the endorsement of more than a dozen local executive leaders.
Mar 29th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Senator Larson calls on Chris Abele to Pull TV Ad
Urges media to stop airing unethical and false attack
Mar 25th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
County Executive Chris Abele Endorses Judge Joanne Kloppenburg
County Executive Chris Abele today announced his endorsement in the race for the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
Mar 24th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
State Senator Chris Larson Issues Statement on Last Week’s Exchange with Senator Taylor
"Last Tuesday, as I was approaching the Senate chambers in the Capitol, I ran into Senator Taylor. She began yelling at me, which was followed by some heated words from both sides."
Mar 23rd, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
County Executive Refuses Once Again to Sign Domes Repair Resolution
Also Ethics Code and Sex Offender Resolutions
Mar 23rd, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
Resolving Estabrook Dam Issue Requires Leadership
"The lack of leadership from the county executive and his inability to work with local officials in a constructive manner has caused needless confusion about the future of the Estabrook Dam and a lack of action."
Mar 22nd, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
UWM Hosts Milwaukee County Execuitve Candidate Debate
Candidates in the hotly contested Milwaukee County Executive race meet only days before the April 5 election in one of their final debates.
Mar 21st, 2016 by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Senator Larson Asks: Who Pays to Clean Up Abele’s Mess?
“Despite the pageantry, there are problems.”
Mar 21st, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Jobs, Economic Development Springing Up in Park East
On the Park East development alone, more than 10,000 jobs are expected to be created over the course of the development project.
Mar 21st, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Abele’s Living Wage Veto: Still Wrong After Two Years
Abele vetoed the Living Wage Ordinance, condemned it with misinformation, and went so far as to go to Madison to try and get Republicans to step in and subvert local control again.
Mar 19th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Another Abele Election Year Conversion: Won’t Follow MPS Takeover Law
The law explicitly requires the commissioner to target a public school for transfer into the separate district and then initiate a request-for-proposal to determine who should run the school.
Mar 18th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
County Executive Not Exempt From Judicial Review
A resolution granting authorization to refile the lawsuit is now before the Board.
Mar 15th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
Senator Larson Demands County Executive Abele Pull False and Misleading TV Attack Ad
Calls for Abele to Apologize to Community Leader and Milwaukee County Voters
Mar 10th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Get Home Safe on St. Patrick’s Day with Miller Lite Free Rides®
Free MCTS Service Provided by Miller Lite and Beer Capitol Distributing
Mar 10th, 2016 by Press Release
O’Donnell Property Agreement with the Milwaukee Art Museum is a WIN/WIN.
In late 2015, not satisfied with the plan negotiated by the County Executive, the County Board chose to reimagine the O’Donnell plaza and garage proposal.
Mar 8th, 2016 by Patricia Jursik
Supervisor Steve F. Taylor Reacts to Committee’s Vote to Fund Marcus Center in Light of Takeover
“This decision flies in the face of the principles of the good stewardship of taxpayer dollars.”
Mar 8th, 2016 by Steve F. Taylor
State Senator Chris Larson Blasts Abele for Flawed Bucks Deal
“To be clear, before he walked in the room, County taxpayers were on the hook for zero extra dollars."
Mar 7th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Returns to Downtown Milwaukee Saturday, March 12th
Week of Irish Entertainment Planned
Mar 7th, 2016 by Westown Association
Wisconsin Working Families Party Continues Political Revolution With New Endorsements
After propelling State Sen. Chris Larson to a surprise win against County Exec. Abele, Wisconsin WFP works to establish progressive voting bloc in Milwaukee
Mar 2nd, 2016 by Wisconsin Working Families Party
Parkland Zoning Crisis Created by Abele Power Grab
Unprotected Land Could Be Sold, Leased Unless Local Governments Act
Mar 2nd, 2016 by Steve F. Taylor
State Senator Chris Larson Proposes Property Tax Cuts for Milwaukee County Homeowners
Calls for shifting tax burden to protect parks, cultural assets, improve transit, and public safety.
Mar 1st, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Chairman Lipscomb on Executive Abele’s Motion to Dismiss
On a technical issue of process, Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Sosnay granted County Executive Abele’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit without prejudice.
Feb 29th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
Case Against County Executive Chris Abele Begins Monday
Chairman Lipscomb Filed Suit Against Abele’s Unilateral Actions, Refusal to Appear Before County Board
Feb 26th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
County Executive AWOL From Public Hearing on Future of the Domes
Abele Refuses to Listen to Community
Feb 24th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
County Executive Chris Abele Statement on Domes Public Hearing
"I’ve asked my partners on the County Board to now authorize an additional $500,000 so that we can fund the repairs needed to safely reopen the Tropical and Arid Domes..."
Feb 23rd, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
2016 Milwaukee Film Festival Call for Entries Now Open
Festival Offers to Pay for All Work Screened; Free Entry for All Films; $27,000 in Cash Prizes Promised
Feb 23rd, 2016 by Milwaukee Film
Chairman Lipscomb Critical of Administration Response to Domes Closure
We are just receiving initial details of their short-term plan to re-open one dome, and the administration’s long-term plan for all three still is unclear.
Feb 22nd, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
State Senator Chris Larson Draws Sharp Contrasts with Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele in Public Policy Forum Debate
The two candidates sparred over issues such as the County's structural deficit, mass transit funding, the future of the Milwaukee County Mental Health Complex, County infrastructure, stewardship of County-owned parks, as well as the Sheriff's budget.
Feb 22nd, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
Abele Targets Suburban Homeowners to Pay for Bucks Arena
Under a proposal in the legislature some Milwaukee County suburban homeowners could have their property taxes used to offset the county’s payments for the Bucks arena.
Feb 18th, 2016 by Steve F. Taylor
Wisconsin WFP’s Marina Dimitrijevic Statement on Tonight’s Election Results
"Tonight's results are an earthquake."
Feb 16th, 2016 by Wisconsin Working Families Party
U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Congratulates Milwaukee on Winning the White House Healthy Communities Challenge
Milwaukee won the White House Healthy Communities Challenge with over 38,000 people in the Milwaukee area newly selecting a plan through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace.
Feb 12th, 2016 by U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin
MCTS Announces Free Bus Pass Program to Help People Register to Vote or Obtain a Picture ID
The program is only for organizations who will then administer the passes.
Feb 11th, 2016 by Milwaukee County Transit System
One Word for Department on Aging: “Instability”
Supervisor Taylor Criticizes Turnover at Department
Feb 11th, 2016 by Steve F. Taylor
Milwaukee County Board to Hold February 24 Public Hearing on Domes
Board Invites County Executive to Discuss the Future of the Domes with the Public
Feb 10th, 2016 by County Board Chairman Theodore Lipscomb, Sr.
Politifact Publishes Partisan Hit Piece Against Chris Larson
Larson is factually correct that Abele has vetoed this funding in the past and has generally opposed it.
Feb 9th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
County Executive Chris Abele Announces Labor Endorsements
This group represents some of the fastest growing unions in the Milwaukee area, collectively representing 15,000 members.
Feb 8th, 2016 by County Executive Chris Abele
Deferred Maintenance Threatens Future of Mitchell Park Domes
“I call on Chris Abele and regional leaders to join me in committing to do whatever it takes to keep our Mitchell Park Domes in Milwaukee for the next generation.”
Feb 8th, 2016 by State Sen. Chris Larson
