If Davis does get recalled, he still might not become a political leper. Look who’s dusted himself off in New Jersey: Eleven months after ethics issues forced him to drop his bid for re-election to the United States Senate, Robert G. Torricelli has resurfaced as a significant behind-the-scenes player in New Jersey politics, with influence in major government contracts, the governor’s office and multimillion-dollar business deals. A federal judge who was appointed to the bench after being recommended by Mr. Torricelli has assigned him as special master of an environmental cleanup site in Jersey City, a position that allows him to control millions of dollars in contracts and collect an estimated $500,000 a year in administrative fees. During the state’s recent budget battle, he played a notable role: advising members of Gov. James E. McGreevey’s inner circle (several of whom are Mr. Torricelli’s former aides) even as he consulted with casino operators fighting the governor’s proposed increase in casino taxes.