toss hat into the ring

toss (one's) hat in(to) the ring

To announce or make known one's intention to compete against others for something, especially in a political race. After Arnold Schwarzenegger was elected governor of California, it seemed like all sorts of celebrities tried tossing their hats in the ring for various political positions. I really think you deserve the promotion. Why don't you toss your hat into the ring?See also: hat, ring, toss

toss one's hat into the ring

 and throw one's hat in the ringFig. to announce that one is running for an elective office. Jane wanted to run for treasurer, so she tossed her hat into the ring. I won't throw my hat into the ring until the last minute.See also: hat, ring, toss