Freedom Caucus slated to lose power as Republicans lose control of the House

As Democrats take back majority control of the House, the conservative House Freedom Caucus will have to adapt to being in the minority, which the group never has had to do since its formation.
Despite significant losses for the GOP in the midterm elections, more conservative-leaning members who could join the HFC's ranks managed to win their elections, bringing in a handful of more recruits.

WASHINGTON — The conservative House Freedom Caucus is expected to lose a significant amount of leverage within the Republican Party when the new Congress forms in January, forcing members of the once-powerful faction to adjust to life in the Democratic-controlled House.

At its peak, the Freedom Caucus was able to force the hand of Republican leadership on key issues. By voting together, they could negotiate harder stances with House Speaker Paul Ryan. But with the GOP's losses in the midterm elections last Tuesday, the Freedom Caucus members will be a part of the minority party for the first time in the group's history.

Paul Ryan's successor will have to deal with a lot of pent-up anger in the GOP conference

The Freedom Caucus' chairman, North Carolina Rep. Mark Meadows, acknowledged in an October interview with Roll Call that it would be "

Despite GOPs widespread losses, the House added several new conservative members

Despite Republicans getting trounced in many races across the country, HFC recruits managed to pick up several seats in the midterm elections.

Incoming freshmen Republicans like Mark Harris in North Carolina expressed openness to joining the group, telling Spectrum News, "I can’t say that that final decision is there until I exactly understand what that means, but certainly I would be looking that direction."

"I’ve had a great deal of respect from day one for their seriousness with which they approach fiscal responsibility," Harris added.

Several other new Republicans who benefitted from the House Freedom Fund — the HFC's PAC — won their races in primarily deep-red districts, which could further add to their numbers.

Despite being in the minority, the personal associations of many HFC members with President Trump could prove advantageous for the politically weakened group.

Unlike most past presidents, Trump has many unique relationships with Republicans in Congress. Trump talks with members after they give fiery defenses of him on television and even maintains candid friendships with Republicans in the rank and file.

Having Trump's ear during budget talks and other negotiations on must-pass legislation comes with significant advantages, particularly for the more conservative members of the Republican caucus who have been frustrated with rules and process under Ryan's tenure.

"FreedomWorks President Adam Brandon told INSIDER in an August interview.

Freedom Caucus slated to lose power as Republicans lose control of the House

Despite GOPs widespread losses, the House added several new conservative members

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