get a seat at the table

To obtain or assume an active role in some group or activity in which one's opinions are heard and one has influence in how decisions are made. The best thing about working for a smaller company is that it finally feels like I've gotten a seat at the table and can actually influence how it operates. I decided to run for elected office because you have to get a seat at the table if you want to effect any real change. Our group is not demanding to dictate public policy. We just want to get a seat at the table regarding how the state is run.