Crossword Genius

Current politician played a role and had influence (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

impacted

'had influence' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'current politician played a role' is the wordplay.
'current' becomes 'I' (symbol for electric current).
'politician' becomes 'MP' (Member of Parliament).
'played a role' becomes 'acted' (I've seen this in another clue).
'i'+'mp'+'acted'='IMPACTED'

'and' is the link.

(Other definitions for impacted that I've seen before include "Of tooth, wedged between another tooth and jaw" , "Had an effect upon" , "Wedged or packed in together, as a tooth say" , "Crushed" , "Wedged firmly" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.