Definition & Meaning of "Vote with pocketbook"

vote with one's pocketbook

/vˈəʊt wɪð wˈɒnz pˈɒkɪtbˌʊk dˈɒləz pˈɜːs/

/vˈoʊt wɪð wˈʌnz pˈɑːkɪtbˌʊk dˈɑːlɚz pˈɜːs/

to vote with one's pocketbook

PHRASE

to protest or show one's opposition to something by one's actions, such as leaving an organization, not buying something, etc.

to [vote] with {one's} [pocketbook|dollar|purse] definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "vote with one's pocketbook" and when to use it?

The idiom "vote with one's pocketbook" originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It emerged during a time when consumerism was on the rise and individuals began to recognize the power of their purchasing decisions. The phrase draws a parallel between the act of voting in elections and the act of making consumer choices.