The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word RIGGING
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
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More clues leading to the result RIGGING
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Tackle/vote-manipulating" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case tackle/vote-manipulating = rigging.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 RIGGING mean?
RIGGING verb- To fit out with a harness or other equipment.
- To equip and fit (a ship) with sails, shrouds, and yards.
- To dress or clothe in some costume.
- To make or construct something in haste or in a makeshift manner.
- To manipulate something dishonestly for personal gain or discriminatory purposes.
- To make free with; hence, to steal; to pilfer.
- To outfit a model with controls for animation.
- To play the wanton; to act in an unbecoming manner; to play tricks.
- Dress; tackle; especially , the ropes, chains, etc., that support the masts and spars of a sailing vessel, and serve as purchases for adjusting the sails, etc.
- Similar supporting material used for construction work, or in film, theater, etc.