Mae West Hold

In short

A “Mae West hold” is a type of Senate hold nicknamed because of the senator’s implied desire to make a deal, rather than block a legislative action entirely.

First known use by January 24, 2017, Congressional Research Service Report R43563

“Mae West holds intend to foster negotiation and bargaining between proponents and opponents.”

The reference to movie star Mae West alludes to her frequently misquoted line from the 1933 film She Done Him Wrong: “Why don’t you come up sometime and see me?” 

The senator implies that those who wish to clear the hold are welcome to visit his office and negotiate.

Written by Taegan Goddard. Suggest a correction Topics: Senate
Cite this entry
MLA

Goddard, Taegan. “Mae West Hold.” Political Dictionary, politicaldictionary.com/words/mae-west-hold/. Accessed 13 Oct. 2026.

APA

Goddard, T. (n.d.). Mae West Hold. In Political Dictionary. Retrieved October 13, 2026, from https://politicaldictionary.com/words/mae-west-hold/

Chicago

Goddard, Taegan. “Mae West Hold.” Political Dictionary. Accessed October 13, 2026. https://politicaldictionary.com/words/mae-west-hold/.

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