PoliticsJune 30, 2026
caucus
/ˈkɔːkəs/
Definition
A formal group of members within a larger political organization, such as a legislative body, who share common interests or ideological goals.
Etymology
Originating from 18th-century North American politics, the word's precise roots are uncertain but may derive from the Algonquian 'cau-cau-asu,' meaning one who advises or encourages. It was adopted into English to describe private political meetings where candidates were selected or strategies were set.
In the news
In this article, the term refers to the collection of Democratic members in the U.S. House of Representatives. Hakeem Jeffries is described as managing this group as they face pressure from an increasingly left-leaning political environment.
Left-wing insurgents storm New York City
Read the full article ↗Politico