political motives

noun phrase

1. reasons or intentions connected with politics, government, or power — especially a desire to gain partisan advantage, influence public opinion, or advance a political cause — that are thought to influence an action or decision

   B2

   plural countable noun phrase; singular: political motiveneutral; often used critically

   • "There were political motives behind the decision."B1
   • "Critics say the investigation was driven by political motives."B2
   • "She suspected that his support for the reform concealed ulterior political motives."C1
   • "The inquiry examined whether political motives had influenced the timing of the announcement."C1