*During electoral campaigns, candidates not only choose a platform but also how much they communicate on different political issues. We investigate a two-stage electoral competition model where candidates vary in their competences. They first choose their platform and then decide how they allocate their communication time, the latter influencing how voters perceive the importance of each issue. We show that the relative differences in candidates’ competences determine whether the campaign focus mostly on one dominant theme or span multiple issues.

**While private funding is essential for scientific progress, its use by vested interests can compromise the objectivity and advancement of research. Big Tobacco pioneered doubt-manufacturing strategies by funding many scientific projects to shape outcomes in its favor and counter adverse findings. While confidential documents reveal its intent, the impact of this funding on research remains unclear. This study aims to provide the first causal analysis of the influence of Big Tobacco’s private funding on research agendas, conclusions, and quality. To do so, I am constructing a comprehensive database of all research projects and researchers funded by Big Tobacco. The database includes details on scientific output, career trajectories, co-authorship networks, and institutional affiliations. I plan to use a staggered difference-in-differences approach to assess the causal effects of this funding.