The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word DEMAGOGUE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
D
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Political manipulator" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case political manipulator = demagogue.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DEMAGOGUE mean?
DEMAGOGUE noun- A political orator or leader who gains favor by pandering to or exciting the passions and prejudices of the audience rather than by using rational argument.
- A leader of the people.
- To speak or act in the manner of a demagogue; to speak about (an issue) in the manner of a demagogue.