49. Norma Gonsalves

One of the six remaining original lawmakers out of 19 first elected to the Nassau County Legislature when it was formed 20 years ago, this former teacher and civic leader rose to lead the GOP-controlled body three years ago. But don’t be fooled by the gavel that she knocks; she’s still Norma from the block. She’s a regular at local civic meetings despite the demanding schedule of leading a legislature that’s in the midst of some serious soul searching, with numerous inquiries underway into its scandal-scarred contract procurement process. Gonsalves herself also had some house cleaning in order after reports that she hadn’t properly filed years’ worth of electronic campaign finance reports with the state—a serious violation she hurried to fix. Her tireless work on behalf of her constituents and dedication to all Nassau County residents resonates, as her smooth re-election last year is testament.