When they see the mayor in person, when he gets up before an audience. Talk about Knute Rockne. He’s the Knute Rockne of politics.
Ed Kelly, Chicago Park District Superintendent 1973-1986, interview excerpt, December 11, 2003

Richard J. Daley speaking at a podium during an All Chicago Italian American Democratic Committee event, 1967. Photo: Copelin. RJD_04_01_0026_0001_001
He could charm anybody. He could strike the fear of God into anybody. If he was in a large room and he entered, it was a presence that he had there that just buzzed with excitement.
Robert Christensen, Executive Director, Chicago Public Building Commission, interview excerpt, September 8, 2003
He was very bright, had a high I.Q., and had a photographic memory. In fact, he never forgot anything. He could meet someone and would spend two minutes talking to them. If he saw that person again, there was a fifty-fifty chance he’d know their name.
Richard Pavia, Chicago Water Commissioner (1973-1979), interview excerpt, June 20, 2002