What is a caucus?

A caucus is a type of meeting or gathering used in some political systems, particularly in the United States. It is typically arranged by political parties to select candidates for public office, discuss and establish party platforms, and determine the party's strategy for upcoming elections. During a caucus, party members or registered voters assemble in specific locations, often at a local level, to engage in open discussions, debate, and voting. It differs from a primary election in that caucuses involve more interactive participation and can involve multiple rounds of voting or realignment. Overall, caucuses play a crucial role in shaping political parties' decision-making processes and setting the direction of their activities.