Jobs Chief executives and legislators held about 80,000 jobs in 1998. About 9 out of 10 worked in local government. Most of the rest worked in State governments. The Federal Government had 535 Senators and Representatives in addition to the President and Vice President. Candidates for office usually must be a certain age, live in their area, and be a U.S. citizen.
Politicians often do well in paid and unpaid work.
Many also have been volunteers with all kinds of social, political, religious, and other groups. Being a good speaker and manager is important in a political campaign. Candidates must inspire and motivate voters and their staff. They should be sincere and honest. They also must know how to compromise, and they must have a lot of energy and be good fundraisers.