Definition

To inject partisan considerations into something that was previously viewed as non-partisan, like the Supreme Court, scientific research, or emergency management.

Example Usage

Critics argued that the Republican senators politicized the judicial confirmation process by opposing qualified nominees on purely partisan grounds.

Origin

From 'political' meaning relating to government and politics

Fun Fact

The 'politicization' of previously apolitical institutions is often cited as evidence of increased partisan polarization.

Source: Contemporary political discourse terminology

Related Terms

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devolution

The transfer of power from central government to regional authorities, essentially letting the kids have their own room while parents keep the master bedroom. It's how countries manage to stay united while giving restless provinces enough autonomy to stop threatening divorce every election cycle. Not to be confused with evolution running backwards, though political opponents often describe it exactly that way.

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feeding frenzy

When media coverage of a political scandal reaches critical mass, with journalists competing to uncover new angles in a self-perpetuating cycle of coverage. Sharks circling, but with microphones and cameras.

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vagocracy

A tongue-in-cheek term for a government or system dominated by female elected officials and leaders—a playful (if crude) neologism celebrating female political power and representation.

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means testing

Restricting government benefits to individuals below certain income or asset levels. The bureaucratic process of determining who's poor enough to deserve help, complete with forms, documentation, and indignity.

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annexation

The polite geopolitical term for one territory absorbing another, whether through mutual agreement, purchase, or—let's be honest—conquest dressed up in legal paperwork. It's how nations expand their borders and cities extend their limits, transforming 'over there' into 'part of us' through treaties, referendums, or historical events that historians still argue about. Modern annexations require more paperwork and fewer armies than historical ones, but the basic concept of 'this is ours now' remains unchanged.

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Checkpoint Charlie

A metaphorical crossing point in Cold War politics where tensions reached dangerous levels. Named after the famous Berlin border crossing.

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