Terms Glossary

Definition and meaning of kickback: A kickback is a practice in which a politician or political party receives money or favors in exchange for a particular vote or decision. This practice is used to buy influence and increase the power of the politician or political party that is receiving the kickback. This practice is antithetical to a functioning democracy and to a reform-minded movement that seeks to reduce the influence of political parties Kickbacks are used to ensure politicians remain loyal to a particular party line, instead of representing the desires of their constituents. Examples of kickback include a politician receiving money from a lobbyist in exchange for a vote, or a political party receiving donations in exchange for support of a particular policy. In both instances, kickbacks are used to reduce the power of the people and increase the power of the political elites. Kickbacks are a form of corruption and are illegal in most countries. In the United States, kickbacks are punishable by both state and federal laws. The reform-minded movement seeks to put an end to the corrupt practice of kickbacks and to create a more equitable democracy in which all citizens have an equal voice.

Definition and meaning of kingmaker: A kingmaker is a person or group that has the power to influence or determine the outcome of an election or political process. This can be done through a variety of means, such as funding campaigns, making endorsements, or providing strategic support.

Kingmakers are often seen as powerful players in the political process, as they can wield significant influence over the outcome of elections and shape the direction of policy. However, from the perspective of independent and third-party candidates, the role of kingmakers can be problematic.

This is because kingmakers are often affiliated with the two major political parties, which means that they may be less inclined to support candidates who are outside the party establishment. This can make it harder for independent and third party candidates to gain traction and win elections, as they may not have the same level of financial and organizational support as major party candidates.

According to data from the Federal Election Commission, the two major political parties dominate the campaign finance landscape in the United States. For example, in the 2020 election cycle, the Democratic and Republican parties combined to receive over 90% of all political contributions. This suggests that independent and third party candidates may have a harder time competing against the well-established and well-funded party machines.

By encouraging independent and third-party candidates to seek office and by supporting their efforts to participate in the political process, we can create a more diverse and representative democracy that works for everyone. This can help to break the stranglehold of the two major parties and create a more open and inclusive political system.

Definition and meaning of kitchen cabinet: The kitchen cabinet is a collection of non-elected advisors to the President of the United States. This informal group is comprised of close confidants and advisors to the President, who act as informal counsel on a variety of policy and political issues. The kitchen cabinet is often a valuable asset to the President, providing trusted advice and political counsel from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. The kitchen cabinet is meant to provide an alternate source of counsel to the President, outside of the traditional channels of the White House and Congress. Kitchen Cabinets have been a part of the American political landscape since the presidency of George Washington.