opposition research

American  

[op-uh-zish-uhn ree-surch] / ɒp əˈzɪʃ ən ˈri sɜrtʃ /

noun

1. the collection of information on the background, activities, etc., of one’s opponent or opponents in an effort to uncover damaging details that will undermine them.

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Etymology

Origin of opposition research

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

In 2010, I co-founded the opposition research hub American Bridge 21st Century.

From Salon • Nov. 25, 2023

The proposal, largely written by Mr. Dingell, called for an unprecedented national lobbying push supported by grass-roots fund-raising, a media operation and opposition research.

From New York Times • Jul. 30, 2023

It is not uncommon for campaign arms for both parties to conduct opposition research and obtain public records to unearth potential weaknesses of political rivals.

From Washington Times • May 15, 2023

With a more competitive race expected in 2022, researchers at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee did the first meaningful opposition research on Santos that summer, assembling an 87-page opposition research book.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 13, 2023

Rather than produce opposition research, it plans to fund ad campaigns as well as studies by academics to make the case for the tech industry, according to sources, including its articles of incorporation in Virginia.

From Washington Post • May 12, 2020