Political Patronage
/pəˈlɪtɪkəl ˈpætrənɪdʒ/
Definitions
- (n.) The practice of awarding public jobs or favors to political supporters and allies as a reward for their assistance.
The mayor's administration was criticized for its reliance on political patronage to fill key city positions.
Forms
- political patronage
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Political patronage typically involves using appointment power to reward loyalty rather than merit, often raising concerns about fairness and corruption in government.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.