Opposition Research
Opposition Research is the process of collecting and analyzing information about political opponents to use during campaigns. This can include reviewing public records, past statements, voting history, and background information. Campaign teams use this research to develop campaign messaging, prepare for debates, and identify potential weaknesses in their opponents. Think of it like a thorough background check, but for political candidates. Similar terms include "competitive research" or "political research." It's a standard practice in modern political campaigns, from local elections to national races.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Opposition Research on multiple candidates for state-level campaigns
Led Opposition Research efforts resulting in successful messaging strategy development
Managed team of researchers conducting Opposition Research and Oppo Research for congressional race
Typical job title: "Opposition Research Analysts"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Opposition Research Analysts
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a comprehensive research strategy for a statewide campaign?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating research plans, managing teams, prioritizing resources, coordinating with campaign leadership, and developing both defensive and offensive research strategies.
Q: How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of research findings?
Expected Answer: Should explain verification processes, documentation standards, source checking, and maintaining organized research files that can withstand scrutiny from media and opposing campaigns.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What public records would you check when researching a candidate?
Expected Answer: Should mention voting records, property records, court filings, business records, campaign finance reports, and explain how to access and analyze these documents.
Q: How do you present research findings to campaign leadership?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating clear summaries, highlighting key findings, providing source documentation, and explaining potential campaign implications.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main sources for opposition research?
Expected Answer: Should list basic sources like news archives, public records, social media, and campaign finance databases, showing understanding of where to start research.
Q: How do you organize and maintain research files?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic file organization, documentation methods, and the importance of maintaining accurate records of sources and findings.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic public records research
- News archive searching
- Social media monitoring
- Research documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced database research
- Campaign finance analysis
- Report writing
- Research project management
Senior (5+ years)
- Research strategy development
- Team management
- Campaign messaging integration
- Crisis response planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of campaign finance laws
- Unfamiliarity with public records databases
- Poor attention to detail in research documentation
- Lack of experience with political campaigns
- No understanding of basic political process
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