Although consultants do not believe negative campaigning is an unethical campaign tactic, they do acknowledge that unethical practices occur in campaigns. Consultants are divided over the effectiveness of several strategies for curbing unethical campaign practices. The code of ethics of the American Association of Political Consultants seems to have even less impact. Political consultants are disproportionately white, male and wealthy. They are also relatively young.
Consultants are less religious than the public at large.
Most consultants have prior experience working in politics or government. And an equal percentage have worked in government. Many consultants started in the profession with hands-on campaign experience. We are especially grateful to James Thurber and Candice Nelson for their suggestions concerning the sample design and survey topics. Figures for members of Congress, presidential appointees, and senior civil servants based on surveys conducted by the Pew Research Center between November 1997 and February 1998.