Richard J. Daley

“We are proud to have with us the poet lariat of Chicago.”

“Don't worry if they're Democrats or Republicans. Give them service and they'll become Democrats.”

“Television and radio do a wonderful job in focusing attention on the problems of our society.”

“Good government is good politics.”

“We have to face it: in America today the way to have fun and celebrate is to break a store window and take something. That's the way it is, today in America, and we have to accept it.”

“Even the Lord had skeptical members of His party.”

“No poll can equal the day-to-day visits of the men and women of the Democratic Party.”

“The Democratic Party is the party that opened its arms. We opened them to every nationality, every creed. We opened them to the immigrants. The Democratic Party is the party of the people.”

“The policeman isn't there to create disorder; the policeman is there to preserve disorder.”

“What is inherently wrong with the word 'politician' if the fellow has devoted his life to holding public office and trying to do something for his people?”

“We all like to hear a man speak out on his convictions and principles. But at the same time, you must understand that when you're running on a ticket, you're running with a team.”

“We shall reach greater and greater platitudes of achievment.”

“Look at our Lords disciples. One denied Him; one doubted Him; one betrayed Him. If our Lord couldn't have perfection, how are you going to have it in city government?”

“We as Democrats have no apologies to make to anyone.”

“The strength of the Democratic Party of Cook County is not something that just happened.”

“They have vilified me, they have crucified me; yes, they have even criticized me.”

“Power is dangerous unless you have humility.”

“The police are not here to create disorder, they're here to preserve disorder.”

“A newspaper is the lowest thing there is.”

“I'm not the last of the old bosses. I'm the first of the new leaders.”