The Republican Study Committee
A Conservative Compass in Congress: Understanding the principles, history, and impact of the largest conservative caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives.
About the RSC 👇 Key Initiatives 📜Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮
About the RSC
Congressional Caucus
The Republican Study Committee (RSC) is a prominent congressional caucus comprising conservative members of the Republican Party within the United States House of Representatives. Founded in 1973, it serves as a platform for advancing conservative principles and policy proposals.
Ideology and Affiliation
The RSC is firmly rooted in American conservatism, advocating for a right-wing political stance. It operates as a key faction within the broader Republican Party, influencing legislative agendas and policy debates.
Membership and Influence
As of the 118th Congress, the RSC represents a significant bloc within the House Republican Conference. Its substantial membership underscores its influence in shaping the party's legislative priorities and conservative agenda.
Historical Context
Origins and Evolution
Established in 1973 by conservative activists like Paul Weyrich, the RSC was formed to monitor and influence the House Republican leadership, which was perceived as too moderate. Its creation mirrored the Democratic Study Group, a liberal counterpart. Phil Crane served as its inaugural chairman.
Resurgence and Restoration
The committee experienced a brief dissolution in 1995 when Newt Gingrich abolished similar groups following the Republican majority win. It was subsequently revived as the Conservative Action Team (CATs) before being restored to its original name, the Republican Study Committee, under John Shadegg in 2001.
Key Figures and Transitions
Notable figures like Steve Scalise, Jim Jordan, and Mike Pence have led the RSC. Paul Teller, a long-serving Executive Director, was dismissed in 2013 following disagreements over budget deals. The committee has consistently advocated for fiscal conservatism and socially conservative legislation.
Core Initiatives
Fiscal Responsibility
A primary focus of the RSC has been advocating for significant cuts in non-defense government spending. Since 1995, the committee has consistently proposed alternative budgets, emphasizing fiscal discipline and balanced budgets without tax increases.
Taxpayer Rights
In 2007, the RSC unveiled its "American Taxpayer Bill of Rights," outlining taxpayer entitlements such as a government that does not grow beyond their ability to pay, the right to receive retirement funds intact, and a simple, fair tax code. This initiative reflects a commitment to limited government and fiscal accountability.
Constitutional Principles
The RSC strongly supports the Second Amendment and the right to keep and bear arms. Its policy positions often align with socially conservative legislation, reflecting the core values of its membership.
Committee Chairs
Leadership History
The Republican Study Committee has been led by numerous influential conservative figures throughout its history. The following table details the succession of chairs since its inception.
| Start | End | Chair(s) | District |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1973 | 1989 | Phil Crane | IL-12 |
| 1989 | 1993 | Tom DeLay | TX-22 |
| 1993 | 1995 | Dan Burton | IN-06 |
| 1995 | 1999 | Dan Burton | IN-06 |
| John Doolittle | CA-04 | ||
| Ernest Istook | OK-05 | ||
| Sam Johnson | TX-03 | ||
| 1999 | 2000 | David McIntosh | IN-02 |
| 2000 | 2001 | Sam Johnson | TX-03 |
| 2001 | 2003 | John Shadegg | AZ-04 |
| 2003 | 2005 | Sue Myrick | NC-09 |
| 2005 | 2007 | Mike Pence | IN-06 |
| 2007 | 2009 | Jeb Hensarling | TX-05 |
| 2009 | 2011 | Tom Price | GA-06 |
| 2011 | 2013 | Jim Jordan | OH-04 |
| 2013 | 2014 | Steve Scalise | LA-01 |
| 2014 | 2015 | Rob Woodall | GA-07 |
| 2015 | 2017 | Bill Flores | TX-17 |
| 2017 | 2019 | Mark Walker | NC-06 |
| 2019 | 2021 | Mike Johnson | LA-04 |
| 2021 | 2023 | Jim Banks | IN-03 |
| 2023 | 2025 | Kevin Hern | OK-01 |
| 2025 | present | August Pfluger | TX-11 |
Membership Overview
Current Members
The Republican Study Committee boasts a significant membership within the House of Representatives. As of May 2025, the caucus comprises 189 members. Notably, at least 25 members also belong to the Freedom Caucus. The RSC's membership roster is no longer publicly published on its website as of January 25th, 2025.
Notable Former Members
The RSC has been a stepping stone for many prominent conservative politicians. Former members include Vice Presidents Mike Pence and Dan Quayle, former Vice President Dick Cheney, and former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay. Senators John Boozman and Roger Wicker, along with former Governors Butch Otter and Bobby Jindal, also served as RSC members during their House tenure.
Key Political Issues
Fiscal Policy
The RSC consistently advocates for fiscal conservatism, emphasizing reduced government spending, balanced budgets, and lower taxes. They have historically opposed large spending bills and advocated for fiscal restraint.
Social Conservatism
The committee generally supports socially conservative legislation. Past positions include upholding the Hyde Amendment, promoting traditional marriage, and opposing abortion.
Border Security
The RSC has supported policies aimed at strengthening border security, including the construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.
Free Speech
The committee has expressed concerns about perceived censorship of conservative viewpoints and advocates for protecting free speech, particularly in the context of online platforms and media.
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Republican Study Committee" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
- This figure does not include James Moylan, a non-voting Delegate who is a member of the caucus.
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional political analysis, legislative consultation, or informed civic engagement. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific political or policy matters. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.