Chief Strategist David Axelrod

Used his intimate knowledge of his longtime client's strengths and weaknesses to underline Obama's thoughtful leadership skills and steer him away from trouble. Proved to be an effective surrogate and a good conductor of a sprawling media team. Only nick: took on too much work at times, including at the Denver convention, where he micromanaged more than necessary.

Grade: A

Read "Q&A: Top Obama Strategist David Axelrod."

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