What does opposition research actually look like and how can it help campaigns win?

In Episode 2 of Staffed Up, Dustin from Republican Jobs sits down with David Topping of Fulcrum Intel to break down how political opposition research works, from public records and voting history to vulnerability research and rapid response.

David explains what makes research actually useful, why bigger research books aren’t always better, how Fulcrum grew from state-level races into major national work, and how AI is changing the way researchers operate.

They also dive into careers in opposition research, including the importance of writing, curiosity, attention to detail, listening, and simply doing what you say you’re going to do.

From campaign vulnerabilities to AI, research strategy, and career advice, this episode gives an inside look at one of the most misunderstood parts of modern politics.

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What does it actually take to build a career in political consulting—and win competitive campaigns?

In the first episode of Staffed Up, hosted by Republican Jobs, Dustin from Republican Jobs sits down with Jimmy Keady, Founder of JLK Political Strategies to break down what a general consultant actually does, how campaigns are built from the ground up, and what separates strong political operatives from everyone else. JLK Political Strategies works across campaigns, caucuses, and advocacy efforts nationwide, handling strategy, messaging, digital, mail, texting, and more.

They get into campaign strategy, candidate management, hiring great staff, AI and emerging political technology, early voting, campaign budgets, and how the industry has changed over the last decade. Jimmy also shares career advice for young operatives, including why taking opportunities, getting campaign reps, staying organized, working hard, and being willing to move can matter more early in your career than chasing the perfect title or paycheck.

Staffed Up is about the real careers behind politics and public affairs: real jobs, real career paths, and real advice from the people doing the work.

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Staffed Up, presented by Republican Jobs, sits down with the people behind campaigns, consulting firms, political organizations, and public affairs to answer one simple question: What does your job actually look like?

Real roles. Real career paths. Real advice.

New episodes begin September 8, 2026.
Find your next role at RepublicanJobs.gop

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www.RepublicanJobs.gop