Atlanta's 10 Most Powerful People

Atlanta is considered to be the unofficial capital of the southeastern United States. Atlanta is also a city with considerable influence on politics, religion, and entertainment. So, to be one of the most powerful people in Atlanta means that you're also one of the most powerful people in the world, but what is power? For the purposes of this ranking, we looked at political influence, social status, and last, but certainly not least, wealth. After all, it was Tony Montana in "Scarface" who said, "In this country, you gotta make the money first. Then, when you get the money, you get the power." With that said, here is a listing of Atlanta's 10 most powerful people.

10. Kasim Reed - Mayor of Atlanta

Unlike in some U.S. cities, in Atlanta the mayor actually does have considerable power and political influence. As a former two-term member as a state representative and former vice chairman of the Senate Democratic Caucus, Mayor Reed has made quite a few powerful and influential friends during his ride to the city's most prestigious office.

9. Monica Pearson - News anchor WSB-TV

For over 35 years, Monica Pearson has been the anchor for one of Atlanta's largest networks. Pearson has received various awards for her reporting and was not only first African-American woman to be named an anchor in Atlanta, but is also the longest running anchor in Atlanta history. Pearson's involvement with various business leaders, political groups, and religious leaders in Atlanta make her well-deserving of the title of one of Atlanta's most powerful.

8. Andrew Young - Former Atlanta mayor, congressman, and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations

Andrew Young has led a movie-script life. He was an involved activist and confidant of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. He is a former U.S. congressman and was appointed as ambassador to the U.N. by President Jimmy Carter and also held the office of mayor in Atlanta. Young was a driving force behind getting the 1996 Olympic Games to come to Atlanta and is credited with spearheading Atlanta's corporate appeal to business around the world.

7. Clark Howard - Consumer advocate

When millions of people around the world watch television, listen to radio, or search the Internet to hear what you say is or isn't a good deal, you've got true power. Clark Howard is one of the most widely used names not only in Atlanta, but also around the country. When you're the world's king of saving money and the world's in an economic spiral, you're going to wield a mighty sword in the world of influence.

6. Elton John - Entertainer and philanthropist

While his main home is abroad, Elton John's primary U.S. residence is just minutes from downtown Atlanta. In a career that has spanned over four decades, Elton John has won almost every major music award thinkable. He is one of the most successful activists and philanthropists in the world and is a frequent name mentioned when listing the world's most rich and powerful entertainers.

5. Nathan Deal - Governor and former U.S. congressman

Being the governor of the state of Georgia immediately qualifies you for the list of Atlanta's most powerful people. Nathan Deal's congressional ties and association with former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich give Georgia's top official a firm position on the list of Atlanta's most powerful.

See who tops the list by checking out the rest of the article at Yahoo! News: Atlanta's 10 Most Powerful People