ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Gatekeeper (politics)

A gatekeeper in politics is like a person standing at the entrance of a big building or a house, deciding who can come inside and who cannot. In politics, it means that some people have more power and influence than others and they get to decide who gets to be part of important discussions, who gets to meet important people, and who gets to have their ideas heard.

These gatekeepers can be people who hold high positions in the government, like the president or a senator. They can also be people who have a lot of money or are part of powerful groups that are not necessarily part of the government but still have a big impact on what happens in politics.

Think of it like a big party where only certain people are allowed to come in. The gatekeepers are the bouncers who decide who gets in and who doesn't. They might only let in people who are dressed a certain way or who know the right people. The same thing happens in politics. The gatekeepers decide who gets a seat at the table and who doesn't.

This can be a problem because it means that some voices are heard more than others, and people who don't have as much power or influence don't get to have their say. It can also lead to corruption, as the gatekeepers might be influenced by people who have something to gain from certain decisions.

Overall, gatekeepers in politics have a big impact on what happens in the government and who gets to be part of the decision-making process. It's important to be aware of them and to work to ensure that everyone's voice is heard and that decisions are made in the best interest of everyone, not just a select few.