1)
What did Daniel request from the king?
1.
Rashi: He should appoint Chananyah, Misha'el and Azaryah over all needs of the kingdom. Malbim ? this was to lighten the load from Daniel.
2)
Why was Daniel in Sha'ar ha'Melech?
1.
Ibn Ezra: This is a high level, for the judges sat there. Also Mordechai sat in Sha'ar ha'Melech.
2.
Malbim: He was a counselor to Nebuchadnetzar.
