Power in Los Angeles was once held by a close-knit group of wealthy downtown businessmen whose political and economic influence held absolute sway. Nowadays, power in the City of Angels is more diffuse and a shifting alliance of politicians, developers, unions and community groups jockey for dominance. Some argue this fragmentation is the embodiment of democracy. Critics say it is a recipe for gridlock.

See the power map of L.A. and a slideshow on the historic Committe of 25.

Hillel Aron reports.