10 Fun Political Terms To Know
By: Emilie Begin
Courtesy of Scholastic Teacher
http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/article/vocabulary-political- words
Coattails: The power of a popular candidate to gather support for other candidates in
his or her party.
Grass Roots: Political activity that originates locally, or arises from ground level.
Lame Duck: An officeholder whose term has expired or cannot be continued, who thus
has lessened power.
Muckraker: A journalist who seeks out the scandalous activities of public officials.
Pork Barrel: Wasteful and unnecessary projects that politicians secure for their local
districts, usually to gain favor with local voters.
Red Tape: Government paperwork and procedures that are slow and difficult.
Rubber Chicken Circuit: The endless series of public dinners and luncheons
politicians must attend to raise funds and make speeches.
Smoke-Filled Room: The sort of place where behind-the- scenes political wheeling and
dealing, often devious, occurs.
Trial Balloon: An idea a politician suggests in order to observe the reaction.
Witch Hunt: A vindictive, often irrational, investigation that preys on public fears.
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