politico
n. countablen. a person who is very involved in politics, especially as a career. It is a casual and often slightly negative way to describe a politician.
n. a person professionally involved in politics, especially a politician or a political strategist. Often carries a derogatory or cynical connotation, implying a preoccupation with political maneuvering over public service.
The local politicos are busy preparing for the upcoming election.
After the scandal broke, every politico in the city tried to distance themselves from the mayor's office.
The gala was crowded with ambitious politicos and lobbyists, all hoping to secure a few minutes of face time with the newly appointed committee chair.
From Italian politico or Spanish político.
Informal in register; frequently used in journalistic contexts to imply a degree of cynicism.