flip-flopper

Beginner 🏛️ Government / Politics

Definition

A politician who changes positions on issues with politically convenient timing, providing endless ammunition for opposition ads. The accusation suggests all the consistency of a weathervane in a tornado.

Example Usage

Opponents branded him a flip-flopper after video surfaced of him taking completely opposite positions on tax policy just two years apart.

Origin

Popularized in 2004 presidential race against John Kerry, though position-switching attacks date to ancient Rome

Fun Fact

The 2004 Bush campaign made 'flip-flopper' stick so effectively that they distributed actual flip-flop sandals at rallies featuring Kerry's face.

Source: Campaign attack terminology

Related Terms

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