For more than 5,000 years, since the time of the ancient Egyptians, governments have sought to inform citizens of the inner workings of the political process. As a specialization of public relations, public affairs (also referred to as “government relations”), fills the need to inform citizens of the many services that a particular government has to offer. Organizations outside of government also employ public affairs specialists to lobby and help shape public policy. Viewed within a democracy framework, public affairs is essential if citizens are to make logical and intelligent choices about their candidates and their political policies.

Communication in public affairs can come from all sides of the political spectrum. William Ragan, former director of public affairs for the U.S. Civil Service Commission, is credited ...