Example : He manipulated public opinion in his favor.

Synonyms : pull strings, pull wires

Example : Fudge the figures.
Cook the books.
Falsify the data.

Synonyms : cook, fake, falsify, fudge, misrepresent, wangle

Example : Rig prices.

Synonyms : rig

Example : She manipulates her boss.
She is a very controlling mother and doesn't let her children grow up.
The teacher knew how to keep the class in line.
She keeps in line.

Synonyms : control, keep in line