What is implied by the phrase 'as long as I'm the boss' regarding authority?

The phrase "as long as I’m the boss" suggests that the speaker's ability to exercise authority is directly tied to their current position. This indicates that their authority is not permanent or intrinsic; rather, it exists only within the context of their role as the boss. The use of "as long as" implies that once the speaker is no longer in that position, their authority will cease. This reflects the idea that authority is contingent on holding that specific role, making option D the most suitable interpretation of the phrase.

In contrast, the other options imply different nuances about authority that are not present in the original phrase. Option A suggests a rotational aspect that is not indicated; authority in this context isn't about shared or rotating power. Option B introduces variables of situational authority that aren't reflected in the statement itself, which focuses solely on the role of the individual. Lastly, option C suggests a permanence to the authority that the phrase clearly contradicts, as it is specifically bound to the speaker's status as the boss.