scorched earth

Definition

A political strategy of total destruction—burning every bridge, leaking every secret, and destroying all goodwill on your way down. It's the nuclear option of political warfare, leaving nothing but ashes and awkward future encounters.

Example Usage

The outgoing administration pursued a scorched earth strategy, shredding documents and issuing last-minute regulations designed to sabotage their successors.

Origin

Military tactic of destroying everything of value while retreating, leaving nothing for the enemy; political use emerged in 20th century

Fun Fact

Sherman's March to the Sea (1864) exemplified literal scorched earth tactics, and his name is still invoked when politicians wage particularly destructive campaigns.

Source: Political strategy terminology

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