Definition and meaning of Tea Party: The Tea Party is a conservative political movement in the United States that emerged in 2009. It is largely made up of grassroots members who advocate limited government fiscal responsibility, free markets, and constitutionalism. Tea Party members have been involved in various political campaigns and have had a significant impact on the Republican Party. It is a reaction to the perceived increase in government spending, taxation, and regulation over the past decade. Tea Party members are generally socially and fiscally conservative and support smaller government, opposition to government bailouts and deficits, and opposition to the Affordable Care Act. They often express concern about the national debt and government overreach. Examples of Tea Party initiatives include support for gun rights, opposition to immigration reform, and opposition to the Common Core educational standards.