This week, Slate begins a series of short features explaining who the 2004 presidential candidates are, what they've said and done, and where they propose to take the country. The first installment summarizes each candidate's personal and professional background. Today's subject is Richard Gephardt.

Richard Andrew Gephardt

Web site: www.dickgephardt2004.com.

Age: 62 (born Jan. 31, 1941).

Highest grade completed: Law school (1965).

Political experience: Alderman, St. Louis (1971-1976); congressman, Missouri (1977-present); U.S. House Democratic leader (1989-2002).

Asserted achievements: Shepherded 1993 Clinton economic plan through the House; raised minimum wage; secured labor and environmental regulations in trade agreements.

Previous jobs: Lawyer in private practice (1965-1971).

Spouse: Jane Byrnes Gephardt.

Children: One adult son, two adult daughters.