But Fletcher's soft start should not fool anyone: With his election, he has become one of the region's most formidable political forces, commanding a battle - hardened phalanx of unionists in desperate need of fresh leadership. (articles.latimes.com)
Howard has proven a formidable political force as a Republican in overwhelmingly Democratic Erie County, gaining a majority of the general election votes in 2013 against two opponents. (buffalonews.com)
Republican Senate Minority Leader Pat Bates, of Laguna Niguel, called Atkins «a formidable political force» and said she hopes the leaders can work together to address issues including sexual harassment. (chicagotribune.com)