1. The practice of moving to a new place to seek political office or economic gain without genuine local ties or commitment.
Usage: Often used pejoratively; Historically associated with Northern politicians and businessmen who moved to the South after the Civil War
2. The activity of a carpetbagger; engaging in exploitative or self-serving behavior in an unfamiliar community.
Usage: Modern usage extends beyond politics to business and sports

1. Relating to or characteristic of carpetbagging; exploitative or opportunistic.
Usage: Descriptive form used to modify nouns

Examples

• The candidate was accused of carpetbagging when he moved to the district just weeks before the election.
• Critics called his carpetbagging scheme a transparent attempt to profit from the struggling community.
• The carpetbagging investors bought up properties with no intention of improving the neighborhood.
• Her carpetbagging tactics in the new city earned her a reputation as someone willing to exploit others for personal gain.
• The politician's carpetbagging background made local voters skeptical of his promises.
• That carpetbagging businessman had no real interest in the town's long-term success.
• Carpetbagging in professional sports occurs when athletes move teams solely for higher salaries.