Political Dictionary

“I am the law” is a phrase attributed to Frank Hague, the mayor of Jersey City from 1917 until he retired in 1947.

A “hatchet man” is an operative in charge of doing political dirty work — or dirty tricks — both during a campaign and sometimes as part of normal government functions.

To be “on the fence” is to be hesitant about taking a political stance.

The phrase “fuck around and find out” conveys a challenge or warning.

The phrase “heartbeat away from the presidency” refers to the fact that the vice president will automatically succeed the presidency in the case of the president’s death, disability, or resignation.

“Dyed in the wool” is a phrase referring to people who hold very strong opinions and are unwilling to change them.