Crossword Genius

Red amphibian included in tally (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

leftist

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'red' is the definition.
(I know that leftist is a type of red)

'amphibian included in tally' is the wordplay.
'amphibian' becomes 'eft' (eft is a kind of amphibian).
'included in' indicates putting letters inside.
'tally' becomes 'list' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'eft' inserted into 'list' is 'LEFTIST'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for leftist that I've seen before include "Supporter of socialism" , "Socialist-leaning" , "Labourite" , "Communist" , "Labour Party member" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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