This book investigates the profound influence of professional political consultants on the mechanics and outcomes of American democratic processes. Dennis W. Johnson, a professor and expert in political management, utilizes his extensive academic background to analyze how the shift toward high-tech, data-driven campaigning has altered the relationship between candidates and the electorate. He argues that the professionalization of politics has transformed elections into sophisticated marketing operations that prioritize strategic persuasion over traditional civic engagement.

Experts and political science scholars frequently cite this work as a foundational text for understanding the professionalization of the American campaign industry. Readers often note the academic rigor and the detailed breakdown of the consultant-candidate dynamic.