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Freedom Caucus Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: The U.S. House Freedom Caucus: Formation, Ideology, and Impact

Cheat Sheet:
The U.S. House Freedom Caucus: Formation, Ideology, and Impact Study Guide

Origins and Founding of the Freedom Caucus

The Freedom Caucus was established in January 2015 with the stated objective of advocating for more conservative policy positions and influencing Republican leadership.

Answer: True

Explanation: The founding of the Freedom Caucus in January 2015 was explicitly aimed at advancing more conservative policy objectives and exerting influence over the Republican Party's leadership.

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The Freedom Caucus was established as a more conservative alternative to the Republican Study Committee.

Answer: True

Explanation: The source material indicates that the Freedom Caucus was formed as a more conservative alternative to the existing Republican Study Committee, reflecting a strategic positioning within the House Republican Conference.

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The planning for the Freedom Caucus's formation began during a retreat in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Answer: True

Explanation: The initial conceptualization and planning stages for the Freedom Caucus took place during a Republican congressional retreat held in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

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Founding members of the Freedom Caucus included prominent figures like Justin Amash and Ron DeSantis.

Answer: True

Explanation: Justin Amash and Ron DeSantis are identified among the prominent founding members of the Freedom Caucus.

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In what year was the Freedom Caucus officially founded?

Answer: January 26, 2015

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus was officially established on January 26, 2015, by a group of conservative representatives.

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Compared to the Republican Study Committee, the Freedom Caucus was intended to be:

Answer: A more conservative alternative.

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus was established with the explicit aim of serving as a more conservative faction within the House Republican Conference compared to the Republican Study Committee.

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Where did the initial planning for the Freedom Caucus take place?

Answer: A Republican congressional retreat in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Explanation: The foundational planning sessions for the Freedom Caucus were initiated during a Republican congressional retreat held in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

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Which of the following was NOT listed as a founding member of the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Marjorie Taylor Greene

Explanation: Marjorie Taylor Greene is not listed among the founding members of the Freedom Caucus; prominent founding members included Justin Amash, Ron DeSantis, and Mick Mulvaney.

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Ideology and Political Stance

The Freedom Caucus is primarily composed of members affiliated with the Democratic Party within the U.S. House of Representatives.

Answer: False

Explanation: The foundational documentation and descriptions of the Freedom Caucus consistently identify its members as affiliated with the Republican Party, positioning it as the most conservative bloc within that party, rather than the Democratic Party.

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The ideology of the Freedom Caucus is substantially linked to national conservatism and generally favors social conservatism and small government.

Answer: True

Explanation: The caucus's political positioning is characterized by its alignment with national conservatism, social conservatism, and principles of limited government.

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What is the predominant political affiliation of members comprising the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Republican Party

Explanation: The foundational descriptions of the Freedom Caucus consistently identify its membership as being drawn from the Republican Party within the U.S. House of Representatives.

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Which ideology is substantially linked to the Freedom Caucus's political positioning?

Answer: National Conservatism

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus's political orientation is significantly associated with national conservatism, alongside elements of right-wing populism and social conservatism.

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Leadership and Key Figures

Jim Jordan was the first chairman of the Freedom Caucus, and he described the group as large and less active.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Jim Jordan was the first chairman, he characterized the caucus as a "smaller, more cohesive, more agile and more active" group, contrary to the description of being large and less active.

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Representative Andy Harris is identified as the current chair of the Freedom Caucus.

Answer: True

Explanation: According to available information, Representative Andy Harris holds the position of current chair of the Freedom Caucus.

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John Boehner described members of the Freedom Caucus as 'moderates' in a 2017 interview.

Answer: False

Explanation: In a 2017 interview, John Boehner characterized members of the Freedom Caucus as 'anarchists' who sought 'total chaos,' not as 'moderates'.

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Bob Good, former chair of the Freedom Caucus, won his 2024 primary challenge with Donald Trump's endorsement.

Answer: False

Explanation: Bob Good, the former chair, lost his 2024 primary challenge to John McGuire, who had received Donald Trump's endorsement.

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Lauren Boebert and Chip Roy held the positions of Communications Chair and Policy Chair, respectively, as of January 2022.

Answer: True

Explanation: As of January 2022, Representative Lauren Boebert served as the Communications Chair, and Representative Chip Roy held the position of Policy Chair for the Freedom Caucus.

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Who served as the inaugural chairman of the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Jim Jordan

Explanation: Jim Jordan held the position of the first chairman of the Freedom Caucus.

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Which representative is identified as the current chair of the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Andy Harris

Explanation: Representative Andy Harris is currently serving as the chair of the Freedom Caucus.

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How did John Boehner characterize the Freedom Caucus in an interview?

Answer: As 'anarchists' seeking 'total chaos'.

Explanation: In a 2017 interview, former Speaker John Boehner described members of the Freedom Caucus as 'anarchists' who desired 'total chaos' and aimed to dismantle the existing system.

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What was the outcome of the 2024 primary challenge against Bob Good, the former chair of the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: He lost the primary to John McGuire, who was endorsed by Trump.

Explanation: Bob Good, the former chair, was defeated in his 2024 primary election by state senator John McGuire, who secured Donald Trump's endorsement.

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What was the outcome of the 2024 primary election for Bob Good, the former chair of the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: He lost the primary to John McGuire.

Explanation: Bob Good, the former chair of the Freedom Caucus, lost his 2024 primary election to John McGuire, who had secured Donald Trump's endorsement.

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Legislative Influence and Tactics

The Freedom Caucus consistently supported the Affordable Care Act and sought to strengthen it.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus has historically opposed the Affordable Care Act, advocating for its repeal on numerous occasions.

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The Freedom Caucus played a minor role in the resignation of Speaker John Boehner.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus declared opposition to John Boehner as Speaker, and its actions were instrumental in the political climate that led to his resignation.

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Paul Ryan made his candidacy for Speaker of the House conditional on receiving an endorsement from the Freedom Caucus.

Answer: True

Explanation: Paul Ryan's bid for the Speakership in October 2015 was explicitly contingent upon securing an official endorsement from the Freedom Caucus.

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The Freedom Caucus's opposition was a key factor in the failure of the American Health Care Act (AHCA) in 2017.

Answer: True

Explanation: The opposition from the Freedom Caucus was a significant factor contributing to the withdrawal of the American Health Care Act (AHCA) by Speaker Paul Ryan due to a lack of sufficient votes.

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President Trump supported the Freedom Caucus's opposition to the AHCA and praised their efforts.

Answer: False

Explanation: President Trump publicly criticized the Freedom Caucus for opposing the AHCA, even declaring 'war' on the caucus and urging Republicans to oppose them in future elections.

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During Trump's second impeachment, Freedom Caucus members defended him and called for Liz Cheney's resignation.

Answer: True

Explanation: Members of the Freedom Caucus actively defended Donald Trump during his second impeachment proceedings and publicly demanded the resignation of Representative Liz Cheney.

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The Freedom Caucus was instrumental in the conflict leading to Kevin McCarthy's removal as Speaker.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus played a significant role in the events surrounding Kevin McCarthy's speakership, including withholding support and contributing to the motion to vacate that ultimately led to his removal.

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The Freedom Caucus has never shown a willingness to employ tactics that could lead to government shutdowns.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus has demonstrated a willingness to utilize tactics, such as voting against continuing resolutions, that can contribute to or result in government shutdowns.

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Nineteen members of the Freedom Caucus voted against Kevin McCarthy on the first ballot for Speaker in January 2023.

Answer: True

Explanation: During the initial rounds of voting for Speaker in January 2023, nineteen members associated with the Freedom Caucus cast votes in opposition to Kevin McCarthy.

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During the vote on the Respect for Marriage Act in July 2022, all Freedom Caucus members voted against it, including the Chairperson.

Answer: False

Explanation: While the caucus formally urged opposition, Chairperson Scott Perry voted in favor of the Respect for Marriage Act, diverging from the caucus's general stance and joining other Republicans and Democrats.

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What legislative act did the Freedom Caucus repeatedly seek to repeal?

Answer: The Affordable Care Act

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus has consistently advocated for the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, proposing such measures numerous times.

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What role did the Freedom Caucus play in the resignation of Speaker John Boehner?

Answer: They declared opposition to him as Speaker, contributing to his resignation.

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus's explicit opposition to John Boehner's speakership was a significant factor contributing to the political pressure that led to his resignation.

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Paul Ryan's decision to run for Speaker in October 2015 was dependent on what condition related to the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Securing their public endorsement.

Explanation: Paul Ryan stipulated that his candidacy for Speaker of the House in October 2015 was contingent upon obtaining an official endorsement from the Freedom Caucus.

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Which of the following was a direct consequence of the Freedom Caucus's opposition to the American Health Care Act (AHCA) in 2017?

Answer: Speaker Paul Ryan withdrew the legislation due to a lack of votes.

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus's opposition to the AHCA, based on its perceived insufficient repeal of the Affordable Care Act, led Speaker Paul Ryan to withdraw the legislation due to an inability to secure sufficient votes for passage.

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What was President Trump's reaction to the Freedom Caucus's role in blocking the AHCA?

Answer: He publicly criticized them and declared 'war' on the caucus.

Explanation: President Trump publicly admonished the Freedom Caucus for their opposition to the AHCA, accusing them of saving Planned Parenthood and Obamacare, and later declared 'war' on the caucus.

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How did the Freedom Caucus members respond to the second impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump?

Answer: They actively defended Trump and demanded Liz Cheney's resignation.

Explanation: During the second impeachment trial of Donald Trump, Freedom Caucus leadership and members actively defended the President and called for the resignation of Representative Liz Cheney, who had voted for impeachment.

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Which action by the Freedom Caucus was instrumental in Kevin McCarthy's eventual removal as Speaker?

Answer: Consistently blocking procedural votes, leading to a motion to vacate.

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus's consistent opposition and blocking of procedural votes significantly contributed to the instability surrounding Kevin McCarthy's speakership, ultimately leading to the motion to vacate that resulted in his removal.

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What was the Freedom Caucus's stance on the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)?

Answer: They opposed it because it lacked a provision to repeal Section 230.

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus opposed the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) primarily because it did not include a provision for the repeal of Section 230, aligning with President Trump's position on the matter.

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What legislative action did 19 Freedom Caucus members block in November 2023?

Answer: A bill funding the Justice Department.

Explanation: In November 2023, nineteen members associated with the Freedom Caucus blocked a rule vote on a bill intended to fund the Justice Department, protesting Speaker Johnson's handling of fiscal matters.

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What specific issue caused a notable split within the Freedom Caucus regarding the Respect for Marriage Act in July 2022?

Answer: Chairperson Scott Perry voted for the bill, contrary to the caucus's urging.

Explanation: A significant split occurred within the Freedom Caucus during the vote on the Respect for Marriage Act when Chairperson Scott Perry voted in favor of the bill, diverging from the caucus's formal position urging opposition.

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What was the outcome of the motion to vacate the speakership against Mike Johnson in October 2023?

Answer: The motion was tabled (killed) by a significant majority.

Explanation: The motion to vacate the speakership against Mike Johnson, filed by Matt Gaetz, was ultimately tabled by a substantial majority vote, allowing Johnson to remain Speaker.

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How did the Freedom Caucus's actions impact the passage of the foreign aid package in April 2024?

Answer: While some members voted against it, the package passed with bipartisan support.

Explanation: Although some Freedom Caucus members voted against the foreign aid package in committee, the legislation ultimately passed Congress with significant bipartisan support, largely due to Democratic votes.

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What is the 'Hastert Rule' and why was it a point of contention for the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: A rule preventing votes without majority Republican support; they demanded its codification.

Explanation: The Hastert Rule, which prevents legislation from advancing without majority Republican support, was a key demand for codification by the Freedom Caucus during Speaker elections, aiming to ensure conservative legislation received floor votes.

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Internal Dynamics and Evolution

Following Donald Trump's election, the Freedom Caucus became more focused on policy principles and less populist.

Answer: False

Explanation: Sources indicate that after Donald Trump's election, the caucus shifted towards greater loyalty to him, becoming more populist and nationalist, and reportedly less bound by strict policy principles.

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Justin Amash left the Freedom Caucus after being condemned for supporting President Trump's policies.

Answer: False

Explanation: Justin Amash departed the Freedom Caucus after the caucus officially condemned him for calling for President Trump's impeachment, not for supporting his policies.

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The proposed 'America First Caucus' was fully supported by senior members of the Freedom Caucus.

Answer: False

Explanation: Senior members of the Freedom Caucus reportedly reacted with 'fury' to the proposed 'America First Caucus,' and key figures publicly denounced it, leading to its discontinuation.

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In June 2023, Marjorie Taylor Greene was expelled from the Freedom Caucus following a verbal altercation with Lauren Boebert.

Answer: True

Explanation: Marjorie Taylor Greene was expelled from the Freedom Caucus in June 2023 subsequent to a verbal altercation with fellow member Lauren Boebert.

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Membership numbers for the Freedom Caucus decreased significantly between 2020 and 2024.

Answer: True

Explanation: Membership figures indicate an increase from 2020 to 2022, followed by a decrease to 35 members in 2024, representing a significant change over the period.

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How did the Freedom Caucus's focus reportedly shift after Donald Trump's election in 2016?

Answer: Shifted towards loyalty to Trump, becoming more populist and nationalist.

Explanation: Post-2016, the caucus reportedly emphasized loyalty to President Trump, adopting a more populist and nationalist stance, and becoming less rigidly defined by policy principles.

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Why did Justin Amash leave the Freedom Caucus in June 2019?

Answer: The caucus officially condemned him for calling for President Trump's impeachment.

Explanation: Justin Amash, a founding member, resigned from the Freedom Caucus after the group formally condemned him for advocating for President Trump's impeachment following the Trump-Ukraine scandal.

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What was the reported reaction of senior Freedom Caucus members to the proposed 'America First Caucus' in April 2021?

Answer: Reported 'fury' and public denouncement.

Explanation: Senior members of the Freedom Caucus reportedly expressed significant displeasure, described as 'fury,' and publicly denounced the proposed 'America First Caucus,' leading to its abandonment.

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What led to Marjorie Taylor Greene's expulsion from the Freedom Caucus in June 2023?

Answer: A verbal altercation with Lauren Boebert on the House floor.

Explanation: Marjorie Taylor Greene's expulsion from the Freedom Caucus followed a verbal altercation with Lauren Boebert on the House floor, during which Greene reportedly used offensive language towards Boebert.

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How did the Freedom Caucus's membership numbers change from 2020 to 2024?

Answer: Increased from 44 to 45, then decreased to 35.

Explanation: Membership figures show an increase from 44 in 2020 to 45 in 2022, followed by a subsequent decrease to 35 members in 2024.

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What was the reason cited by Anna Paulina Luna for her resignation from the Freedom Caucus in March 2025?

Answer: A loss of 'mutual respect that has guided our caucus.'

Explanation: Anna Paulina Luna stated that her departure from the Freedom Caucus was due to a perceived loss of 'mutual respect that has guided our caucus.'

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What was the stated reason for the conflict between Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert within the caucus?

Answer: Greene reportedly calling Boebert a 'little bitch' during an argument.

Explanation: The conflict between Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert reportedly stemmed from Greene referring to Boebert as a 'little bitch' during a verbal altercation on the House floor.

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Associated Organizations and Governance

The House Freedom Fund is a political action committee (PAC) associated with the Freedom Caucus, used to support aligned candidates.

Answer: True

Explanation: The House Freedom Fund functions as the political action committee (PAC) affiliated with the Freedom Caucus, dedicated to supporting candidates who align with the caucus's objectives.

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The House Freedom Caucus publicly discloses the names of all its members.

Answer: False

Explanation: A key aspect of the House Freedom Caucus's policy is that membership is by invitation only and the names of its members are not publicly disclosed.

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The Freedom Caucus Foundation is a Super PAC focused on federal election campaigns.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus Foundation operates as a nonprofit advocacy arm, distinct from a Super PAC, focusing on public outreach and promoting the caucus's policy goals.

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The 'State Freedom Caucus Network' is an officially affiliated organization of the House Freedom Caucus.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'State Freedom Caucus Network' is not officially affiliated with the House Freedom Caucus, although it is described as an offshoot of the Conservative Partnership Institute.

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What is the function of the House Freedom Fund?

Answer: A political action committee (PAC) supporting aligned candidates.

Explanation: The House Freedom Fund serves as the political action committee (PAC) associated with the Freedom Caucus, utilized for supporting candidates who align with the caucus's political objectives.

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What is a key aspect of the House Freedom Caucus's membership policy?

Answer: Membership is by invitation only and names are not disclosed.

Explanation: The House Freedom Caucus maintains a policy of invitation-only membership, and the identities of its members are not publicly disclosed.

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What does the '80 percent rule' signify for the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Decisions supported by 80% of members are binding on all.

Explanation: The '80 percent rule' stipulates that any decision receiving the support of 80% of the caucus's members becomes binding upon all members, enhancing the group's internal cohesion and external influence.

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Which organization serves as a nonprofit advocacy arm for the Freedom Caucus?

Answer: Freedom Caucus Foundation

Explanation: The Freedom Caucus Foundation functions as the nonprofit advocacy arm of the caucus, engaged in public outreach and promoting its policy objectives.

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What was the significance of the '80 percent rule' in the Freedom Caucus's decision-making process?

Answer: It meant decisions supported by 80% of members were binding on all.

Explanation: The '80 percent rule' within the Freedom Caucus dictates that decisions achieving 80% support among members are binding on the entire caucus, thereby strengthening its collective action.

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