The general predisposition to believe conspiracy theories cuts across partisan and ideological lines. It was especially influential because Willkie was seen by many as having transcended partisan politics. Such heads of state are expected to remain neutral with regards to partisan politics. This changes the prohibition against direct intervention in partisan contests only for lobbying. Oaks established a policy to prevent BYU administrators from participating in partisan politics. Democrats criticized Gowdy for conducting his investigations in a partisan fashion. The campaign was bitter and characterized by malicious insults by partisan presses on both sides. The elections of 1792 were the first contested on anything resembling a partisan basis. Delaney introduced legislation to end partisan gerrymandering. Xenophon accused proponents of this attack of a "partisan and personal campaign". The Roman government seemed paralyzed by incidents of partisan contention. John Avlon says he crystallized popular distrust of partisan extremes. Texas is one of seven states that elects Supreme Court justices on partisan ballots. A depoliticised civil service based on merit replaced patronage policies rewarding jobs for partisan efforts. Adams was re-nominated on the endorsement of state legislatures and partisan rallies.