Frank Zeidler

Frank P. Zeidler (born 1912; deceased 7 July 2006) was an American socialist and mayor of Milwaukee, Wisconsin from 1948 to 1960.

During his administration, Milwaukee grew industrially and never had to borrow money to repay loans. During this period, Milwaukee nearly doubled its size with a very aggressive campaign of municipal annexations. Large parts of the Town of Lake and most of the Town of Granville were annexed during this era. Federal funding was obtained to complete the highway system that had started under Daniel Hoan. The park system was upgraded.

His brother Carl Zeidler, the so-called "Singing Mayor," also served as mayor of Milwaukee from 1940 to 1942. Carl was more conservative in political philosophy than Frank.

Zeidler was instrumental in re-forming the Socialist Party USA in 1973, and served as its National Chair for many years. He was the party's presidential nominee in 1976, getting on 10 state ballots. He and his running-mate, J. Quinn Brisben, won 6,038 votes.

Zeidler, who credits his activism as a Socialist to his deep Lutheran faith, was active and involved in politics as a Socialist until his death at age 94.

Preceded by John Bohn	Mayor of Milwaukee 1948–1960	Succeeded by Henry W. Maier
Preceded by —	Socialist Party Presidential candidate 1976 (lost)	Succeeded by David McReynolds

See also