15. Kevin Law

This might get confusing, but Law is the only Power Person to hold two jobs that qualify him for the list. Since Suffolk County Exec Steve Levy took office four years ago, Law has served as his chief deputy county executive and general counsel. His close relationship with Gov. Eliot Spitzer is about to give him more juice, as he assumes the position of LIPA chairman this fall. Law was the managing partner of Nixon Peabody LLP before going into the public sector, a move that seems to have been just right. But while he’s held high positions, Law has been able to hang back a bit. His new role with LIPA will be a test as he steps into the ginormous shoes left by outgoing Chairman Richie Kessel, a media magnet and one of the most recognizable faces on LI.