How clan becomes an influence? (5)

I believe the answer is:

clout

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

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for clout that I've seen before include "weight" , "Cuff" , "Old-fashioned garment" , "Cast not one before May is out" , "Smack - influence" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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