Math that i dont understand

Question

The senate in a certain state is comprised of 55 republicans, 41 democrats and 4 independents. How many committees can be formed if each have 3 republicans and 2 democrats

Answer 1

The number of combinations should be 4*₅₅C₃*₄₁C₂ which assumes any independent can be on the committee.

If no independents are on the committee, remove the 4 in front!

If independents are allowed, there are 4*26235*820 = 86,050,800