A public official is a person who holds an elected or appointed position in government, where they are responsible for carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their office. Synonyms for public official include government official, civil servant, elected representative, public servant, state officer, and office bearer. These terms all describe someone who works in an official capacity within government, where they are expected to represent, serve, and protect the interests of the public. Whether at the local, state, or federal level, public officials play a crucial role in ensuring that the government operates effectively and serves the needs of its citizens.