Key Congressional Caucuses to Know for Congress

Congressional caucuses are groups formed by members of Congress to advocate for specific interests and issues. These caucuses play a crucial role in shaping legislation and representing diverse communities, from racial minorities to women and various political ideologies.

1. Congressional Black Caucus

   • Founded in 1971, it aims to address the legislative concerns of African Americans and other marginalized communities.
   • Comprises over 50 members, focusing on issues like civil rights, economic equality, and social justice.
   • Plays a significant role in shaping policies related to education, healthcare, and criminal justice reform.

2. Congressional Hispanic Caucus

   • Established in 1976, it represents the interests of Hispanic and Latino Americans in Congress.
   • Advocates for policies on immigration reform, education, and healthcare access.
   • Works to increase Hispanic representation and influence in federal legislation.

3. Congressional Progressive Caucus

   • Formed in 1991, it promotes progressive policies and social justice initiatives.
   • Focuses on issues such as income inequality, climate change, and healthcare for all.
   • Aims to mobilize support for legislation that aligns with progressive values.

4. Republican Study Committee

   • Founded in 1973, it is a group of conservative Republican members of the House.
   • Focuses on promoting limited government, fiscal responsibility, and traditional values.
   • Plays a key role in shaping the Republican Party's legislative agenda.

5. House Freedom Caucus

   • Established in 2015, it consists of conservative Republican members advocating for limited government and individual liberties.
   • Influences the Republican agenda by pushing for more conservative policies and fiscal restraint.
   • Often challenges party leadership on issues where they feel the party is not adhering to conservative principles.

6. Blue Dog Coalition

   • Formed in 1995, it is a group of moderate and conservative Democrats in the House.
   • Focuses on fiscal responsibility, national security, and bipartisan cooperation.
   • Aims to bridge the gap between progressive and conservative factions within the Democratic Party.

7. New Democrat Coalition

   • Established in 1997, it consists of centrist Democrats who advocate for pro-growth policies.
   • Focuses on issues like economic innovation, job creation, and fiscal responsibility.
   • Aims to appeal to a broad range of voters by promoting pragmatic solutions.

8. Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus

   • Founded in 1994, it represents the interests of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
   • Advocates for issues such as immigration reform, civil rights, and economic opportunity.
   • Works to increase awareness and representation of AAPI issues in Congress.

9. Problem Solvers Caucus

   • Established in 2017, it is a bipartisan group focused on finding common ground on key issues.
   • Aims to foster collaboration between Democrats and Republicans to address national challenges.
   • Works on issues like infrastructure, healthcare, and budget reform.

10. Congressional Women's Caucus

    • Founded in 1977, it advocates for women's rights and gender equality in legislation.
    • Focuses on issues such as reproductive rights, equal pay, and violence against women.
    • Aims to increase the number of women in Congress and influence policy that affects women and families.