Crossword Genius

Decisively influence southern faction (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

swing

'decisively influence' is the definition.
(as in swinging an election)

'southern faction' is the wordplay.
'southern' becomes 'S' (abbreviation).
'faction' becomes 'wing'.
's'+'wing'='SWING'

(Other definitions for swing that I've seen before include "Jazz-like dance music" , "Sweeping blow or stroke" , "Piece of playground equipment" , "be hanged?" , "change in voting" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.