Definition of Mud-Slinging

What does the term "mud-slinging" mean in the world of politics? What is the definition of the term "mud-slinging"?

There is a Latin saying - "throw plenty of dirt and some of it will be sure to stick".

Mud-slinging is the act of trying to soil somebody's reputation by spreading accusations about them. By accusing people of unscrupulous behavior, mud-slingers are attempting to cast a shadow on somebody's reputation.

This is especially important in the world of politics, where people want to vote for somebody that is trustworthy and has strong morals.

For instance - let's say that two men are in a race for an open Senate seat, and one of the men is accused of having an extramarital affair.

This is "mud-slinging" - does an affair have much to do with whether or not a person would be a good candidate for office? Probably not, but people would certainly be less likely to vote for somebody that is unfaithful to their wife.

Mud-slinging is a part of politics, United States or otherwise.

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