Political Dictionary

An essential guide to the language of power

Word of the Day Friday, October 30, 2026
Blue Slips

Blue slips are a long-standing Senate tradition that allows a Senator to signal opposition to a federal judicial nominee from their home state.

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Word Games

Real or Snollygoster?

Finger on the Button
  1. AThe person who has his "finger on the button" controls the…
  2. BThe person who has his "finger on the button" is positioned to…
  3. CThe person who has his “finger on the button” has the power to…

Three definitions, one real. Spot the snollygosters.

Play today’s round → Puzzle No. 40

Define It

An is a news event which takes place shortly before a closely-watched election and which may influence the…

Five definitions, the term blanked out. Name all five.

Play today’s round → Puzzle No. 40

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Surrogate

A “surrogate” refers to an individual who publicly speaks on behalf of a candidate or elected official, typically to promote, defend, or explain their positions and policies.

Tell It Like It Is

The phrase “tell it like it is” is commonly used to describe politicians or pundits that are perceived as being forthright, candid, and unfiltered in their communication.

Aisle

The “aisle” refers to the space which divides the majority side from the minority on the House and Senate floor.

Vetter

A “vetter” is an individual or team responsible for conducting thorough background checks and investigations into the qualifications and suitability of a candidate or appointee.

Earned Media

In political parlance, “earned media” refers to coverage or publicity that is not directly paid for by a campaign or political party, but rather is the result of news outlets…

Low Information Voters

“Low information voters” refers to individuals who participate in electoral processes without a comprehensive understanding of the issues or candidates.

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