If you can raise the flag and wave her
Never grant a favor
Smile and  tell them maybe
Always kiss the baby,
Give the kid a locket out of daddy's pocket
Have him thank you for the crime
My friends the practice you're indulging in is politics
Yes, it's politics, simply politics.
You pay a fella seven dollars and he kicks back six
You're in politics every time.
If you can please the big employers and the workers' lawyers
Keep them busy fighting while the fish are biting
Don't improve conditions 'cept for politicians
Then demand a little fee.
My boy the papers have a name for it it's politics,
Yes it's politics,filthy politics.
If you can treat the general public like a bunch of hicks
You're in politics, yes sir ree!
You must be either high or lofty,or a regular softy,
Smart administrator,or a second rater,
Stern and super human,or like Harry Truman
Then you really make it pay.
The occupation that's designed for you is politics.
Often called a fix, but it's politics.
If you can mingle with the Dutchmen and the Irish mix
You're in politics, what the heck?
You spell it P O L I T I C S.
"My platform is a chicken for every pot!"
That's politics, what the heck?