retail politics

American  

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. a political strategy or campaign style of meeting and speaking directly to as many voters as possible.

   New Hampshire is a state where retail politics are decisive.

   Not every candidate is good at retail politics.

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retail politics British  

noun

1. informal (functioning as plural) the practice of a politician soliciting in person for votes from the public

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Etymology

Origin of retail politics

First recorded in 1900–05; in the sense of “politics in which votes are for sale”

Example Sentences

Raman’s supporters acknowledge she has shortcomings when it comes to retail politics, but say those should not overshadow her strengths.

From Los Angeles Times • May 26, 2026

Even ignoring the element of tradition, New Hampshire, with its small size, ease of access, and traditional obsession with democratic representation and retail politics, easily fits the mold for the earliest contest.

From Slate • May 26, 2026

Manzur’s theory is that, in a state like New Hampshire, famous for the retail politics of its presidential primary, even a relatively small group of volunteers can move the needle.

From Salon • Dec. 14, 2025

His schedule underlines that he also needs to be a quick study in a new skill - retail politics.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2025

Mr. Putin has long loathed populist retail politics, deriding the sort of baby kissing required of American politicians campaigning for office as frivolous and vulgar.

From New York Times • Aug. 5, 2023