How Old Is John McCain?

John McCain, serving his fourth term as U.S. senator for Arizona, is running for re-election against Democratic candidate Rodney Glassman. As part of a Politics Daily series providing background about the major candidates in the 2010 elections, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about McCain's prepolitical life.

How old is John McCain?

McCain is 74 years old.

When was John McCain born?

McCain was born on Aug. 29, 1936.

Where was John McCain born?

McCain was born on the Coco Solo Naval Air Station in Panama.

Who are John McCain's parents?

McCain's parents are four-star U.S. Navy Adm. John S. McCain Jr. and Roberta (Wright) McCain.

Does John McCain have any siblings?

McCain has two siblings – older sister Jean Alexandra ("Sandy") McCain Morgan and younger brother Joseph ("Joe") Pinckney McCain II, a Vietnam vet like John who later worked as a freelance writer and actor.

What did John McCain do before running for Senator?

McCain began serving as U.S. senator for Arizona in 1987, winning Barry Goldwater's seat after Goldwater retired. Before that, McCain had a long career with the U.S. Navy, including being held as a prisoner of war in the Vietnam War. He retired on April 1, 1981, to enter politics by running for (and winning) a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982. In the interim, he worked as vice president of public relations at his father-in-law's beer distributorship, Hensley & Co. McCain ran for U.S. president in 2000, when he was defeated by George W. Bush in the Republican primaries, and in 2008 he was defeated by Democratic nominee Barack Obama in the general election.

How long has John McCain served as U.S. senator?

McCain has been a senator for 23 years.

More John McCain News and Information

SEE ALSO: Is John McCain Married?

Read John McCain's full bio on his official website.