Milwaukee City Wire

Bruce Harrison, a reporter at TMJ4 News in Milwaukee, was among the droves of local residents recently turning out to celebrate the state’s first Laborfest event in three years.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Laborfest has not been held in Milwaukee since 2019.

“A lot of proud union workers and their families and friends at Laborfest enjoying burgers, brats and a pre-noon beer,” Harrison tweeted on Sept. 5. “Enjoy, everyone. Happy Labor Day.”

Fox6 Milwaukee reported that President Joe Biden was also among the speakers on hand at the Summerfest grounds, where planners said the goal of this year’s six-hour outing on North Harbor Drive was to organize workers for the future. Biden, who was also scheduled for an event in Pittsburgh later in the day, was welcomed to the city by Mayor Cavalier Johnson and City Executive David Crowley, with his appearance expected to double the Laborfest crowd.

With all the festivities free to the public, including a raffle and playground for children, food and drinks, live music and a classic car show, TMJ4 News reported that the celebration kicked off with a parade that started at Zeidler Union Square.

With Wisconsin polls showing Biden’s disapproval ratings higher than his approval ratings, CNN reports that Senate candidate Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes (D-WI) skipped the visit, while Gov. Tony Evers (D-WI) joined the president after aides reportedly advised him not to appear with Biden for a July speech "so they could avoid being together." Evers denies this and says he was happy to introduce the president at Laborfest.