To have an effect or influence on a situation or outcome; to contribute to something.
play second fiddle
To play a subsidiary or subordinate role to someone or something else.
have a hand in
To contribute to, participate in, or influence.
hold sway
To have the greatest influence (over someone or something); to be pre-…
clout list
A usually secret list containing the names of people who are to be giv…
put one's stamp
To change or influence (something) in a way that demonstrates one's st…
pull strings
To manipulate a situation, especially by asking favours of others; to …