The implicit meaning of all of these phrases together is that language in D.C. isn't just about clear communication -- it's a way of maintaining insider status. The jargon, acronyms, and buzzwords form a kind of code that can make even well-informed outsiders feel out of step until they learn the lingo.
Of course, insider lingo isn't unique to Washington. Every place, from small towns to large cities, has its special way of communicating. But in the nation's capital, where the decisions of some affect the lives of all, it's worth considering how these linguistic barriers can block people from understanding and engaging with the democratic process. Indeed, those who campaign on bringing in outsiders and "draining the swamp" are responding to the reality that D.C. can be tough for anyone who doesn't already speak its language. Mastering the jargon is often the first step to being taken seriously -- but it also highlights how much effort is needed to make the system more accessible to all Americans.