The phrase "political neophyte" refers to someone who is new or inexperienced in politics. It describes a person who is not well-versed in the ways of politics and lacks knowledge or experience in the political field. Full definition
At the outset, there was something refreshing about Carl Paladino, the erratic, energetic political neophyte who took down the Republican establishment. (nypost.com)
In 2010, Malliotakis, then a 30 - year - old political neophyte with almost no money, defeated well - funded incumbent Democratic Assemblywoman Janele Hyer - Spencer, a close ally of former Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. (nypost.com)
The editorial also singles out the other political neophyte in the field, Sean Coffey, for praise, calling both newcomers «extraordinarily talented lawyers, which is a prerequisite for the job.» (nystateofpolitics.com)