With All Due Respect
“With all due respect” is often employed as a rhetorical device to preface a statement of disagreement or critique, ostensibly cushioning the blow while drawing attention to the forthcoming dissent.
Word of the Day
Saturday, October 31, 2026
Robocall
A “robocall” is an automated telephone call that delivers a prerecorded message to multiple phone numbers. Typically, robocalls are used for mass messaging.
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Permanent Campaign
The term “permanent campaign” was first coined by Sidney Blumenthal in his 1980 book, The Permanent Campaign.
Lame Duck Session
A “lame duck session” is when the House or Senate reconvenes in an even-numbered year following the November general elections to consider various items of business.
Wag the Dog
The phrase “wag the dog” refers to a strategy where a political leader engages in diversionary tactics—often involving military action or another high-stakes maneuver—to distract the public from a pending…
Unanimous Consent
Unanimous consent is a legislative procedure whereby a legislator requests approval by all legislators to approve rule changes and bills.
Cats and Dogs
Cats and dogs are are leftover “stray” bills on minor subjects saved for days when the House or Senate have light floor schedules.