Hold sway (over someone or something) informal verb phrase
To have great power or influence (over someone or something)
Ken holds sway over the manager, so he could no doubt help you.
She holds sway over the board of directors, so many people have a great regard for her.
Use one's influence and power to support someone
To be under the control of someone or something
As a person's power increases, his or her sense of morality lessens.
Used to describe something that has great influence or importance
To compel someone to do something
The verb “hold” should be conjugated according to its tense.