The phrase "powerful patrons" refers to influential individuals or groups who provide support, resources, or protection to others. These patrons have significant influence and can greatly assist or benefit those they support. Full definition
When wealthy and powerful patrons make decisions, that's probably bad. (bookpage.com)
This may be because of innate suspicion of «big science» (which climate science has become, with powerful patrons in government and UN and international institutions) or because of a commitment to forms of data and knowledge libertarianism, as in the Wikileaks movement. (judithcurry.com)
Hillary Clinton blamed powerful patrons of the GOP for deepening the country's political divide, but added that she also regrets some of the things she's said. (businessinsider.my)