In a closed-door meeting with House Republicans on Thursday, former President Donald Trump referred to Milwaukee as a "horrible" city. However, Milwaukee Democratic Mayor Cavalier Johnson promptly defended his city, which is set to host the Republican National Convention this summer.

Mayor Johnson asserted that Milwaukee is a great place and expressed confidence that both Trump and other Republicans attending the convention would recognize its merits firsthand. He emphasized that insulting the home of tens of thousands of Republican voters in the swing state of Wisconsin could have political consequences for the former president's aspirations of returning to the White House.

Johnson further explained that given Wisconsin's history of closely contested elections, disparaging the city of Milwaukee could potentially cost Trump the election. He highlighted the efforts being made by the city to address crime rates that increased following the pandemic.

During the closed-door meeting, Trump's comments about Milwaukee were specifically directed at crime rates and not the city itself, according to Wisconsin GOP Rep. Derrick Van Orden, who was present in the room. Johnson echoed this sentiment during his conversation with CNN's Laura Coates, emphasizing that Milwaukee is actively working towards resolving the issues surrounding crime.

As the discussion regarding crime rates and election integrity issues intensified during Trump's visit to Capitol Hill, his comments about Milwaukee garnered attention, with some expressing concern about the negative portrayal of the city. Mayor Johnson's response aims to shed light on Milwaukee's progress and its significance as the host of the Republican National Convention.

The upcoming convention will offer an opportunity for Republicans to experience Milwaukee firsthand and witness the city's attributes, Mayor Johnson confidently asserted. As preparations for the convention continue, Milwaukee remains committed to showcasing its potential and dispelling any negative perceptions being portrayed.

In conclusion, Mayor Cavalier Johnson's staunch defense of Milwaukee in response to former President Donald Trump's remarks highlights the city's determination to overcome its challenges and present itself to the country in a positive light.