governing coalition

Definition

When multiple parties band together to reach a majority and run the government, common in parliamentary systems where no single party wins outright. It's a political arranged marriage where everyone keeps separate bedrooms.

Example Usage

The center-left party formed a governing coalition with the greens and moderates, requiring compromises on environmental and fiscal policy.

Origin

Standard parliamentary terminology dating to 19th century European politics

Fun Fact

Belgium went 541 days without a governing coalition in 2010-2011, yet the country functioned reasonably well, raising philosophical questions about government necessity.

Source: Parliamentary government terminology

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markup session

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congressman

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