Awsom Associates/Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University

Sommer is an adviser and confidante to anyone who matters in Democratic politics in this state. And some Republicans, including those at high levels. And reporters, who value his insight and connections. And Rutgers students who take his Public Policy Advocacy class at the university’s Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy. And fans of the New Jersey Devils. Yes, he once served as an executive with the team, but he was a fan when the NHL team was struggling to draw crowds and now ranks among the Devils’ most prominent boosters.

With a gubernatorial campaign for an open seat heating up, Sommer will play a role in both the primary and general election campaigns. And if a Democrat wins the governorship, he will likely help the new administration get up and running.

Outside of campaigns, Sommer can be counted upon to make connections and provide important context to a variety of political and policy issues. He knows the personalities, the histories and the motivations of the state’s most important political players, including South Jersey boss George Norcross. New Jerseyans’ understanding of the state is shaped in no small measure by Sommer’s guidance to those responsible for reporting the news. Sommer is also a former president of Observer Media and was a partner and executive vice president of national PR firm MWW (MikeWorldWide).