goat rope

noun4

1. •
   (slang) A confusing, disorganized situation often attributed to or marked by human error.

   • Never did find out what happened in July, but that was a goat rope that was poorly coordinated. — 2010
2. •
   (slang) A convoluted issue that is contested by many parties.

   • “How far up does this little goat rope go?” Sarge asked. “As far as we know, all the way to the commander in chief.” — 2013
3. •
   An ill-advised solution to contain a problem; a solution that will eventually fail.
4. •
   A rodeo event in which competitors attempt to lasso a goat, usually for younger participants.