power base

noun

1. a source of authority or influence, especially in politics, founded on support by an organized body of voters, ethnic minority, economic class, etc.:

   His election as governor gives him a power base for seeking the presidency.

Word History and Origins

Origin of power base¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

The arc of Jones’ long career stretched from smoky jazz clubs, where he collaborated with innovators such as Miles Davis, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, to his Los Angeles power base, where, like a titan, he watched over his musical empire from a mansion atop Bel-Air.

From Los Angeles Times

Mohammed, a 57-year-old in the southern Beirut suburb of Dahieyh - Hezbollah's main power base in the capital - told the BBC he had "survived all the wars since 1975" so "it's normal for me".

From BBC

With more than $2bn allocated to the fund, it gives the Haftars enormous influence to extend their power base.

From BBC

With that power base established, all the familiar machinery of Southern segregation swung into action: 100 percent white councils would budget 100 percent white neighborhoods and the vast majority of city resources, from park budgets to schools, public works, and public safety.

From Slate

Hsieh contends that an elected chief executive would establish their own political power base, setting the stage for power struggles with the board and confusion over who is in charge.

From Los Angeles Times