Some presidential candidates have begun to seek media advice from prominent American consultants, although the extent of the foreigners' influence to date appears limited.

"Politics is about as predictable as sports," said one prominent consultant.

Michael D. Dawidziak, a prominent political consultant, viewed both sides' claims with skepticism.

"We don't know whether he's a Dukakis or not," said a prominent Democratic consultant who asked not to be identified.

"The administration realizes that Ashcroft is a bit of a lightning rod," said a prominent Republican consultant.

"It's not surprising," said Felipe Noguera, a prominent political consultant.

With the benefit of hindsight, here is what some influential authors, professors and prominent consultants say about their Internet analyses.

Enron also hired other prominent political consultants.

Meanwhile, a Justice Department official said at least one prominent military consultant would cooperate with prosecutors.

"There has been an unusual amount of quiet on that issue," said a prominent Republican consultant.