Richard M. Daley

Richard M. Daley is the current Democratic mayor for the city of Chicago. He has held that post since 1989, and has been reelected five times, a state record for longest term as mayor.City of Chicago: Mayor's Office: Ricard M. Daley On August 26, 2008, Daley spoke at the Democratic National Convention, opening the convention's second day.2008 DNC: Schedule

In 1995, Daley assumed control of the school system in the city. Making sweeping reforms that included increases in education funding, standards have, reportedly, risen. However, since his acclaim in the mid-1990s, Daley has felt some heat for his alleged involvement in the "Hired Trucking Scandal," a false billing scheme.Chicago Sun-Times: Hired Trucking Scandal He also made the controversial decision to demolish Meigs Field airport, which was done at night and without the knowledge of the Federal Aviation Administration.AOPA Online: Mayor Daley bulldozes Chicago's Meigs Field (March 31, 2003)

• April 24, 1942: Born

• 1964: Graduated De La Salle Institute

• 1969: Elected to his first public office as delegate to the 1969 Illinois Constitutional Convention

• 1972-1980: Won a seat in the Illinois Senate

• 1989-present: Elected Mayor of Chicago

• 2008: Spoke at 2008 Democratic Convention