play politics

Idioms and Phrases

Act for personal or political gain rather than principle, as in I don't think this judge is fair—he's playing politics . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

In his veto message, Christie also chided Democratic lawmakers for “using their lawmaking authority to play politics.”

From The Daily Beast

These are critical national security positions and individual members shouldn't play politics with their nominations.

From The Daily Beast

I also had some confidence that Chief Justice John Roberts would not play politics on this one.

From The Daily Beast

"It seems to me from what I hear that you want to play politics instead of comedies," said Florine, suddenly appearing.

From Project Gutenberg

So young Siebold can afford to play politics and insure a following, which nobody, even the professors, can stop.

From Project Gutenberg

We had best be prepared and not play politics or baseball or anything.

From Project Gutenberg

Everybody must "moral-crusade," "agitate," "press-agent," play politics.

From Project Gutenberg

Reformers, or most that ever I met, are only men who first tried to play politics and got licked at it.

From Project Gutenberg