This word for one in office (who may lean on supporters for funds) is from the Latin for "lean on"
[DOC] [TLE] Bernie Sanders on Foreign Policy - OnTheIssues.org [PAR] Throughout the history of our relationship with Latin America we've operated 
under ... CLINTON: With respect to China, one of the most challenging 
relationships we have, ... SANDERS: First of all, we're going to have to lean on 
China.