expression, godan verb (-ru, irregular)
be out of office; be in private life; be in opposition
Set phrase used when a politician or public figure is not in power or has left office. Often contrasted with 朝にある (to be in government). The 'private life' gloss reflects the state of being a private citizen rather than a public official.
彼は長年野にあったが、今回の選挙で与党に返り咲いた。
He was out of office for many years, but returned to the ruling party in this election.
野にある政
Even politicians out of power can maintain their influence.
Means 'to be in government' or 'to be in power', the opposite of 野にある.
From 野 (field, wilderness) metaphorically meaning 'out of power' + にある (to be in). The phrase contrasts with 朝 (court, government).