bully pulpit

Definition

The powerful platform and public attention that comes with high office, particularly the presidency, allowing a leader to advocate for their agenda and shape public opinion. 'Bully' here means 'excellent,' not 'intimidating,' though modern presidents manage both.

Example Usage

The president used the bully pulpit to rally public support for the legislation, delivering prime-time addresses and Twitter storms in equal measure.

Origin

Coined by President Theodore Roosevelt, who used 'bully' in its then-common sense of 'wonderful' or 'first-rate.'

Fun Fact

Roosevelt gave the White House its name and transformed it into a media hub, holding frequent press conferences and basically inventing the modern political publicity machine.

Source: Presidential studies terminology

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