be on even footing

To be equal in power, ability, etc., to someone or something else. The president won't listen to a lowly aide like me! She needs to hear about my findings from someone who's on even footing with her. Of course our department is struggling—you completely slashed our budget! We're no longer on even footing with the other departments. Hey, don't come in here and tell me what to do, like we're on even footing or something! You owe your entire career to me, kid, and don't you forget it!