Political leverage refers to the power or influence one party holds over another to achieve specific outcomes. This can manifest in various political contexts, including negotiations, legislation, or electoral strategy. Leverage often arises from strategic alliances, control of resources, or public support, enabling the party with leverage to push their agenda effectively. In legislative contexts, for instance, a coalition can exert leverage by holding critical votes, compelling parties to negotiate compromises. Understanding political leverage is vital in assessing the balance of power within political systems, influencing decisions and leading to varying degrees of policy implementation and governance effectiveness.