👉 In the context of political science, "smearers" refer to individuals or groups who are used by others to undermine a candidate's chances in an election. They are often associated with negative campaigning and attacks on the opponent's character or record. Smearers can be either active participants in the campaign itself (e.g., using false information) or passive observers who receive favorable coverage from media outlets, political parties, or other sources. In politics, smearers may aim to disrupt a candidate's