The President of the Corporate Republic of Chicago is the head of state and head of government of the nation, and commander-in-chief of the military. The office is the highest in rank and power in Chicago, and one of the most powerful in North America. The president is elected to a term of four years, which are renewable for as long as the canidate is able to run for re-election. Upon the death, resignation, or removal from office of an incumbent President, the Vice President will assume the office. The first was Richard M. Daley, who declared the nation's independence on August 27, 2007.