Frank MacKay

As the leader of the third-largest party in politically diverse New York State, MacKay holds sway over both the bigger parties. Democrats use his line when they vote for Republican candidates to avoid casting ballots for those on the GOP line, and vice versa. In a state where the Conservative nomination is sink or swim for Republican candidates, the Independence Party nod indicates a certain centrism that can go a long way in a Blue State. MacKay, also head of the national and Suffolk County chapters of the party, has managed to harness the untamable beast known as the independent voter. While the party’s ideology is a bit of a mystery, and like any political machine, there is some behind-the-scenes drama, MacKay has nonetheless maintained the vitality and force of the Independence Party.

Inducted to the Hall of Fame in 2011