Riley A. Bender

Riley Alvin Bender (July 8, 1890 – March 6, 1973) was a United States businessman and political candidate.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Josephine and Edward Bender, he was a lifelong resident of his native city.

Bender was an entrepreuer in the areas of hotel and music store management.

Bender is perhaps best known for his three bids for Republican Party Presidential nomination in the elections of 1944, 1948 and 1952.

[1] Bender, who had German and Irish heritage, died in Chicago's Central Hospital and was buried in Onarga Cemetery.

Handbill showing vote totals of 1948 of the Illinois Republican presidential primary, which Bender won, having been the only candidate listed on the ballot