Chicago, Ill. Mayor Richard M. Daley announced Tuesday he would not seek a seventh term as mayor of The Windy City.

Daley has been mayor since 1989 and on Christmas Day he will surpass his father, Richard J. Daley, as the longest-serving mayor in Chicago history, serving for 21 years.

"I've always believed that every person, especially public officials, must understand when it's time to move on," Daley said during a Tuesday news conference where he was flanked by his wife, Maggie, who has been battling cancer for years, and their children.

"Many of you will search to see what is behind my decision," he added. "It is simple. It is simple, I have always believe that every person, especially public officials must understand when it is time to move on. For me, that time is now."

White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, a native of Chicago and a former Daley aide said he would be interesting in taking Daley's place as mayor someday. However, he didn't comment on if he would consider a run in February.

"While Mayor Daley surprised me today with his decision to not run for re-election, I have never been surprised by his leadership, dedication and tireless work on behalf of the city and the people of Chicago," Emanuel said in a statement released Tuesday.

During Daley's run, he saved a struggling public school system, improved the scenery of Chicago's downtown area, and tore down public housing high rises that segregated the city.