Definition

Relating to individuals who seek political office in a place where they do not have local ties or connections, often for personal gain.

Example

The carpetbagging candidate faced criticism for not understanding the local issues.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new candidate running for mayor?

Yeah, I heard they're a bit of a carpetbagging type.

It seems odd for someone to run here without any local ties.

Right? It makes you wonder about their real intentions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Carpetbagging is derived from 'carpet bag' (a type of bag made from carpet material, used by travelers) and the suffix '-ing' (indicating an action or process). The term originally referred to opportunistic politicians who traveled with their belongings in carpet bags, particularly during the Reconstruction era in the United States, implying they were outsiders seeking to exploit the local situation.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone traveling with a 'carpet bag' to remember that 'carpetbagging' refers to people coming in from outside to take advantage of a situation.

Visually Confused Words