Rudy Clai, age 49, was born July 7, 1958 in Chicago, Illinois. He is the son of Italian immigrant parents. He was raised on strong family values. These include: the value of education, hard work, the love of God, family, freedom and our country. He attended Carl Schurz High School and the University of Illinois in Chicago. Rudy has over 30 years of experience in public service, politics, advertising, promoting, entertainment producing and management, multi-media, development, restaurant, banquet, catering venues. In addition to his varied work experience, he is a dedicated philanthropist and has demonstrated community service and leadership capabilities by his involvement in various communities, political and charitable organizations. He is the Founder and President of Citizens for a Better Fox Valley.
Rudy’s prior professional affiliations have been with the University of Illinois 1976 to 1981, Circuit Court of Cook County (1984-1988), the City of Chicago (1988-1990), the State of Illinois (1994-1997), the Republican Party (1994 to present).
His advertising, multi-media, promoting and entertainment affiliations have been with WUIC Radio (1976-1980), Ad Spec Advertising (1979-1983), Dolfo Productions (1978-1994), SOS Records (1994-1998), the Marco Polo Entertainment Group (1998-2000), Willoughby Entertainment, (2006-present), Fox Valley TV (2005-present)
His restaurant affiliations have been Papa D. Licious Restaurant and Pizzeria (1990-1994), Country Lakes Country Club (1994-1998), Grand Mandarin Restaurant (1999-2000), Mélange Blue Restaurant (2001-2004)
Rudy was involved in civil, political and community organizations from an early age, helping his father do precinct work from the age of 13. He eventually became a precinct captain himself and worked his way to coordinating captains for various elected officials. He has exhibited an on going commitment to improve the community on numerous occasions.
Rudy has a special talent for cutting to the heart of issues and dealing with problems in an effective and innovative manner. His proven leadership skills qualify him for the office that directly represents the concerns of the people of the 14th Congressional District of Illinois.
Rudy owns a home in North Aurora, Illinois with his wife Gabrielle Gosselin Clai. Gabrielle is a partner of the law firm of Benson, Mair and Gosselin in Batavia, Illinois.