Machine politics

Machine politics refers to a political system where a centralized, organized group, often called a "political machine," controls political activity and decision-making in a specific area, usually a city. These groups maintain power through a network of patronage, where they provide jobs, services, and favors in exchange for support, votes, and loyalty from the community. While this can lead to effective governance and infrastructure development, it often involves corruption, nepotism, and a lack of transparency, as the machine prioritizes its own interests over democratic principles.