20. Dean Skelos

Recently re-elected to his 12th term, this Republican state senator and deputy majority leader has held his office for more than two decades and has become synonymous with all things Rockville Centre. A stubborn lawmaker and tough negotiator, Skelos is often found pressing the flesh and talking with constituents in the 9th Senate District. The larger fight looms with Majority Leader Joe Bruno, who does not play nice with Skelos. Gadfly opinion held that Bruno chose Nassau County GOP Chairman Joe Mondello to run the state party because he and Skelos don’t get along, and it would thwart Skelos’ power play for Bruno’s job. No matter. Skelos is safe where he is. Few are loved by their constituents like Deano.