What is a caucus primarily used for in the political process?

A caucus is primarily used as a meeting of local party members to choose officials or candidates. This function is crucial within the political process, especially during the early stages of elections, where party members gather to discuss and select their preferred candidates for various offices. Caucuses often serve as a platform for debate and deliberation, allowing participants to express their preferences and influence the outcome of nominations.

The primary focus of a caucus is candidate selection, which allows party members to engage directly in the electoral process at a grassroots level. This stands in contrast to public forums or social gatherings where discussions might not directly relate to candidate selection or official endorsements. While grassroots movements and policy changes can emerge from caucus meetings, they are not the primary purpose. The intent of a caucus is thus closely tied to the political machinery of candidate and party leadership selection.