Definition
The archaic system where a legislator's power is determined by how long they've been holding a seat, ensuring that entrenched incumbents run everything.
Example Usage
Due to seniority, the senator from the safe district chairs the most powerful committee despite being relatively junior intellectually.
Origin
From Latin 'senior' (older), applied to legislative rank systems in the 20th century.
Fun Fact
Committee chairs are almost automatically awarded based on seniority, meaning the longest-sitting members control the legislative agenda.
Source: Congressional power structure terminology
Related Terms
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See “Senioirity” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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