Why would Griffin jump 16 spots on this list, given his very public, very contentious pending divorce from fellow hedge fund manager Anne (see our Power Smackdown)—a split that could take a sizable chunk of his estimated $6.5 billion net worth? The main reason: The richest man in Chicago donated an eye-popping $13 million (including use of his jet) to Bruce Rauner’s gubernatorial campaign. His generosity should buy him a seat at the table in Springfield.