Tag: campaigning

A “body man” is an assistant or valet who follows a political figure around the clock, providing logistical assistance for daily tasks ranging from paperwork to meals.

The “coattail effect” is a phenomenon whereby a political candidate or leader’s popularity leads to improved vote totals for fellow party candidates further down the ballot.

To be on the “bandwagon” is to follow a group that has a large and growing number of followers.

A glad-hander is a highly extroverted person who makes a point of acting friendly in an over-the-top way.

The term “permanent campaign” was first coined by Sidney Blumenthal in his 1980 book, The Permanent Campaign.

A “dark horse” is a candidate for office for whom little is known or for whom expectations are low, but who then goes on to unexpectedly win or succeed.

A “smoke-filled room” is used to describe a situation where politicians or other powerful individuals gather in a private, enclosed space to make important decisions or negotiations without public scrutiny.

“Whistle-stopping” is practice of making political speeches or appearances in many different towns during a short period of time.

A caucus is an informal meeting of local party members to discuss candidates and choose delegates to their party’s convention.

In American politics, the term “mugwumps” was first used to describe those who left the Republican party in favor of the Democrats in 1884 to vote for Glover Cleveland instead…

A “rubber chicken circuit” is the nickname given to the endless parade of dinners that political candidates must attend during a campaign for office in order to meet donors and…

“Swiftboating” refers to the use of dishonest or misleading tactics to attack or smear the reputation or character of a political opponent.

An October surprise is a news event which takes place shortly before a closely-watched election and which may influence the election’s outcome.

In politics, a handler manages a candidate during an election.

An incumbent is an official who already holds a political office.

An individual with strong political opinions who does not hesitate to express them.