He was a powerhouse. One of the few non-Italians to have a direct line with a boss of any family, especially as late as the 1960's. He often had audience with Accardo, Ricca, Giancana, and other higher ups. His political connections were extremely valuable. Only other guy I can think of (at least around the same time period) that had this type of clout with the Italians was Maishe Rockman.