hat in the ring

Definition

The moment a politician formally announces their candidacy, transitioning from 'considering a run' to actually running. Named after a boxing tradition, which is fitting given what campaigns become.

Example Usage

After months of speculation, the senator finally threw her hat in the ring, announcing her presidential campaign before a hometown crowd.

Origin

From early 20th century boxing, where challengers literally threw their hats into the ring to signal they'd fight the champion

Fun Fact

Theodore Roosevelt popularized the phrase politically in 1912, declaring 'My hat's in the ring' when challenging his successor Taft for the Republican nomination.

Source: Campaign announcement terminology

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