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

But she said she saw a key role in 2024 for other super PACs, including American Bridge, the party’s clearinghouse for opposition research, which also runs television ads.

From New York Times • Jul. 14, 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

Vance’s campaign, including polling, opposition research, messaging strategy and ad writing.

From Washington Post • Apr. 19, 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

It was "laid out in the style of a campaign's opposition research document," according to a New York Times reporter.

From Salon • Jul. 24, 2020