To control or influence the outcome of events in any given situation or setting by nefarious or conciliatory means. To be the ‘puppet master’. To ensure a desired outcome within an event by
controlling or directing the actions of others (whether through an
individual or a tertiary party) usually while one’s direct
involvement is veiled or ambiguous to outsiders.
"So, hey Brett, are you
getting that new funding for your department?"
"Hopefully. I've been pushing some things
under the table, it should all pan out
in the end"
"Wow, so you really 'Karl Rove'd it', huh?"
"Oh, yeah."