Gates's role in the campaign was--and will continue to be--behind-the-scenes. A friend of the Gore family for years, he has consulted with the vice president on economic issues and race relations.

Noting that Gates is seen as an "African American leader," Alex Zaroulis, Gore's New England communication director, said he has been "instrumental in the campaign."

Both Zaroulis and Doug Hattaway, another Gore aide, said they weren't privy to the content of the conversations between Gates and Gore.

Said Zaroulis, "He has played a very important role in the campaign--he is widely respected and revered."

The use of prominent intellectuals as unofficial campaign consultants is common, though their roles have tended to remain shrouded, according to Matthew Crenson, a professor of political science at Johns Hopkins University.

"Intellectuals always had a role in the political process, but welcoming them into campaigning is a sign of opening up a greater role for intellectuals that has not been there in the past," Crenson said. "Intellectuals are responsible for formulating the ideas that inspire millions of people to vote."

This is a role both West and Gates have publicly relished, especially given the questions the media has raised surrounding the intellectual prowess of Republican frontrunner George W. Bush.

"A candidate with money but no ideas can't win," Crenson said.