seniority rule

noun

, U.S. Politics.

1. the custom in Congress providing for the assignment of a committee chairpersonship to that member of the majority party who has served on the committee the longest.

Example Sentences

But the mayor and Best fiercely opposed officers layoffs, arguing they would take a long time to bargain with the Seattle Police Offices Guild and warning a seniority rule would result in newer officers, including officers of color, being let go.

From Seattle Times

The seniority rule, by which committee chairmanships went not to ability but to long service, favored mediocrity and second childhood.

From Project Gutenberg

The seniority rule, to which reference has been made before, must be abolished before talent will have its opportunity in the legislative branch.

From Project Gutenberg

And in any case the seniority rule will be severely tested in the Senate.

From Project Gutenberg

Both irregulars will then attain places of vast power unless the seniority rule is abrogated.

From Project Gutenberg