Spoilsmen are individuals who actively participate in, or benefit from, the spoils system, a political practice where victorious parties distribute government jobs and benefits to their supporters, often regardless of merit. They prioritize loyalty and party affiliation over competence or public service. The term historically describes figures manipulating political power to gain personal advantage, enriching themselves or their allies through patronage and corruption. This system can lead to inefficiency, corruption, and a decline in the quality of public administration, as qualified individuals are often overlooked in favor of those with political connections. It is linked to cronyism and political favoritism.
Spoilsmen meaning with examples
- The newly elected mayor, a known spoilsman, immediately replaced several experienced city managers with less qualified individuals, all prominent campaign donors. This triggered public outrage as services suffered and critics called him out. The move was seen as consolidating power and rewarding loyalty over competence.
- Historical accounts reveal how spoilsmen thrived during certain periods of American history, using their influence to secure lucrative government contracts for their friends and family, leading to widespread allegations of graft and bribery. This corruption impacted the whole state.
- During a legislative session, several bills were stalled due to the lobbying efforts of spoilsmen seeking to protect their interests. Their behind-the-scenes manipulation aimed at preserving the status quo and protecting their control of resources and influence.
- A study investigated the extent to which spoilsmen influenced the allocation of federal funding to various infrastructure projects. The study found that projects in districts represented by influential spoilsmen received disproportionately more funding, suggesting political motivations.
- The reform movement's primary goal was to eliminate the influence of spoilsmen from government, replacing the system of patronage with a merit-based system. The aim was to establish fair governance and a more effective public sector.
- The new governor aimed to eliminate the spoilsman culture.
- The politician was accused of being a spoilsman.
- Many people consider it a term of disdain.