Old saw?
The “saw” refers to an old saying, or a wise statement or observation.
Gold dust
If someone say something is like gold dust to them, it's something they treasure and relish.
Pants are on fire
The phrase “pants on fire” is just another cry out on a big liar.
What is an entrenched issue?
It refers to a problem that’s been there for a long time and is probably not going to completely go away any time soon.
Political mumbo-jumbo
Political mumble-jumble, then, refers to a seasoned politician’s empty talk.
Good Samaritan
Samaritan is someone who helps others out of compassion and not for any particular selfish reason.
At the water’s edge?
By letting politics stop at the water’s edge literally means stopping playing politics when it comes to dealing with other nations, across the seas.
Bell cow?
Bell cows are mostly used in sporting circles, referring to the best players on a team.
A bucket list goal?
If a goal is a “bucket list” goal, then it is a life-long pursuit. It is something people want to do before they die.
Golden rule?
A golden rule, then, is such a valuable principle (rule) that you at no time want to violate it.
Tip of the iceberg?
It indicates that the problem could be much larger and much more serious than what meets the eye.
Going back to the drawing board?
If you’re going back to the drawing board, it implies failure or at least some degree of imperfection.
Earn your keep?
Earn one’s keep means one must work to make a living instead of being a parasite.
Swan song?
“Swan song” means last performance. Why?
Close, but no cigar?
It means that you’ve come close, but no victory, hence no medal and no victory lap.