This article focuses on one category of exception to the protections of Title VII -- that of "elected public officials" and their "personal staff." The legislative history of this exemption is examined and Federal case law analyzed. Cases indicate that many criminal justice personnel fall into the unprotected category. Positions such as probation officer, deputy sheriff, assistant district attorney, and court clerk are not covered by the law. Although case law appears to be firmly established, the authors maintain that judicial decisions on this issue are of dubious value when examined in light of the statute's intent. Differing judicial approaches to statutory interpretation have led to consequences that Congress sought to avoid under the 1972 amendment, leaving criminal justice personnel unprotected. 90 references. (Publisher abstract)