special report
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hough many faces have changed, Washington Life’s rules of power remain the same on this, our 8th annual, Power 100 List. Once again we recognize a wide-ranging mix of local personalities guided by the following indicators and attributes: (1) knowledge is power; (2) access is power; (3) influence is power; and (4) the perception of power is often the most powerful of all. Money doesn’t necessarily beget power, as it ultimately depends on how it is used. For listing purposes, we continue the tradition of eliminating anyone drawing a government paycheck since that would be, well, a bit boring. Instead, our list primarily focuses on players — some more behind the scenes than others — who have helped shape legislative and judicial politics, the economy, diplomacy, media, business, real estate and the arts. While things tend to slow down after a major presidential election, there has been plenty happening in Washington, be it the tax skirmishes, immigration debates, gun control, environmental and energy security battles, money in politics, middle east policy or major gay rights cases before the Supreme Court. Behind (and often in front of) the buzz are the power players who help shape
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the national dialogue on these issues and so many more. Nearly 50 percent of our listees are new this year, having proven that through their knowledge, influence or access, they have the ability to profoundly shape the environments in which they interact. They represent a dazzling mix of personalities. Among them are David Corn, who broke a story that may indeed have impacted the outcome of the 2012 presidential election; the Human Rights Campaign’s personable new leader Chad Griffin; Fox News’ Bret Baier, whose ratings continue to surpass his competitors; NPR’s Kojo Nnamdi, one of the most beloved men in radio; and the ONE Campaign’s Michael Elliott, among many others. We also acknowledge leaders in the arts and professional sports for their influence on the cultural life of our region, including Redskins’ quarterback Robert Griffin III, Arena Stage’s Molly Smith, chef extraordinaire Jose Andres, and the Washington National Opera’s dynamic duo Phillippe Auguin and Francesca Zambello. Whether their influence comes from political impact or cultural influence, these individuals show the depth and breadth of power in Washington and beyond. Read on for the full list.
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