An elected or appointed leader who serves in legislative or executive roles in government.
What politicians do
Politicians develop policy, vote on legislation, manage agencies, hire staff, meet with constituents, raise funds, and campaign for office. Legislators focus on writing laws and oversight, while executives such as mayors and governors run governments and respond to crises.
Training path
Politicians come from diverse backgrounds: law, business, education, military service, advocacy, and community organizing. Most US elected officials build local profiles before running for higher office. Campaigns require fundraising networks, name recognition, and party support.
Roles
US elected roles include city councilors, mayors, school board members, county commissioners, state legislators, governors, US representatives, US senators, and the President. Many staff positions also fall under appointed political roles.
Find more professions by letter
Politician starts with P and ends with N. Browse other professions along the same letter.
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