Tag: power

A “three martini lunch” is a long, leisurely lunch, usually associated with either business or backroom political dealings.

In politics, a “fat cat” is a rich and influential person, usually one who donates generously to political campaigns.

“Nut-cutting time” is when drastic actions are required, because all other methods have failed. The phrase is used in sports as well as in politics.

“Movers and shakers” are those who have power and influence in business, politics, or other segments of the public sphere.

An “ego wall” is where people flaunt their political connections by displaying photos of themselves with more famous people.

The term “party line” refers to the officially agreed-upon policy positions of a political party.

The term “muckety muck” refers to individuals who hold significant power, influence, or high rank within politics.

“Kingfish” is the nickname for Huey P. Long, the one-time governor of Louisiana.

A “grifter” is a con artist, someone who obtains money by swindling or tricking others.

“Chicago-style politics” is a phrase used to characterize a supposedly offensive tough, “take-no-prisoners” or “hardball” approach to politics.

Honest graft refers to the money-making opportunities that might arise while holding public office.

To be “thrown under the bus” is to be sacrificed by someone hoping to avoid blame themselves, often in order to make political gain.

“Political suicide” is an unpopular action that is likely to cause significant harm to their reputation, electoral success, or power within their organization.

A “carpetbagger” is a politician who runs for office or tries to appeal to a constituency in a geographic area where he or she has no roots or connection.

The term “inside baseball” refers to any subject matter which is considered too highly specialized to be appreciated by the general public.

A “recall election” allows voters to oust an elected official, by means of a direct vote,while that official is still in the middle of their term.

Rough and tumble, attack-dog style political campaigns are sometimes referred to as pitbull politics.

A demagogue is a politician whose rhetoric appeals to raw emotions such as fear and hatred in order to gain power, rather than using rational arguments.

In politics, a “rainmaker” is an individual who can raise campaign funds for others.

An influence peddler is one who uses their political influence to try and win favors for others.

A “power broker” is someone who wields indirect political power, either by influencing the outcomes of elections or by exercising influence over key decision makers.