What Donovan never wanted to admit, however, was that in his own ruthless drive for power he had alienated too many powerful constituencies, and had left himself and his agency vulnerable to attack.
Russia has long been criticized for its thicket of military and law enforcement agencies, independent fiefs with little accountability, powerful constituencies and a willingness to use their powers for political ends.
Veterans, one of Mugabe's most powerful constituencies, may attempt to spoil a transfer of executive powers if they fear losing influence.
Both are powerful constituencies.
But like any other politician, he has powerful constituencies that help shape his views.
It ran into heavy opposition from powerful constituencies aligned with the Republican Party.
It's going to be a very big challenge at a place like Time Inc. with so many different, powerful constituencies".
Unfortunately, election-year politics and powerful constituencies — rather than research and reason — are driving the JOBS legislation forward.
But basketball coaches, one of college sports most powerful constituencies, are vehemently opposed to one part of the N.C.A.A. proposal.
And that puts the Obama administration squarely between two powerful constituencies that typically support Democratic presidential candidates.
WASHINGTON — Election years always bring with them tough balancing efforts for presidential candidates trying to stay on the good side of powerful constituencies.
