BOOK REVIEW

Title: A Liberal in City Government: My Experiences as Mayor of Milwaukee

Author: Frank P. Zeidler

In ten words or less: Zeidler recalls his 12 years as Milwaukee's socialist mayor.

Review: Milwaukee has a long tradition of democratic socialism, and Frank P. Zeidler was elected mayor in 1948, as the socialists were on their last legs. He recounts the elections and the red baiting by opponents and the local media. Most of the book tells of the problems of the city versus the suburbs, during a time of economic growth. Suburbs fought annexation, though city services such as water and sewer were demanded.
Zeidler tells how the long hours and demands of the office took a toll on his health. He ran for president in 1976 on the Socialist Party USA ticket.

Why bother? Interesting to readers looking for an insider's view on Milwaukee politics and to those seeking a practical look at the effect a lone outsider can have in government.