The synthesis of a new mesogenic thiophene derivative is reported. The monomer, which exhibits interesting mesophase properties, contains a p-cyanobiphenyl group that is electronically and sterically decoupled from the thiophene ring by means of an octyl spacer. Electropolymerization of this monomer produces a polymer with conjugation length. conductivity, and electroactivity comparable to those of poly(3-alkylthiophenes). The use of indirect substitutional effects to control the long-range order and dimensionality of conducting polymers is discussed.