What is a Congressional Caucus?

First established in the 118th Congress, the Congressional Printing Caucus in the 119th Congress is led by Congressmen Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI-05), Jared Golden (D-ME-02), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), and Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24) in the House of Representatives. The caucus has grown from a handful of members to 17 members, and it continues to grow. PRINTING United Alliance supports the Printing Caucus’s purpose to inform members of Congress about the value of the printing industry in their states and districts. This bipartisan, bicameral caucus highlights the importance and economic significance of the printing industry and focuses on the policy solutions needed to sustain and promote this essential sector.

Caucuses come in every shape, size, and subject matter, but they all seek to influence the policy process. Officially known as Congressional Member Organizations (CMOs), congressional caucuses are voluntary associations consisting of lawmakers who share specific policy goals or interests. To learn more about CMOs, read the documents below:

Congressional Caucus Primer

Officially known as Congressional Member Organizations (CMOs), congressional caucuses are voluntary associations consisting of Representatives and Senators who share specific policy goals or interests. Importantly, these CMOs are not to be confused with party caucuses and conferences.

CMOs and Informal Member Groups

Members of the House and Senate often participate in informal Member organizations. These organizations are formed for a variety of reasons, usually associated with policy objectives or representational considerations, and can enable Members to raise awareness about a particular topic and exchange information or ideas with colleagues (within or across chambers).

Congressional Caucus Purpose and Activities

This report examines the historical development and contemporary role of Congressional Member Organizations (CMOs) in the House, as well as informal Member groups in the House,Senate, and across the chambers.