James E. Clyburn is a prominent Democratic congressman who has represented South Carolina’s 6th congressional district since 1993. As a long-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Clyburn has significantly contributed to shaping national policies and advocating for his constituents.
Throughout his career, Clyburn has been a strong proponent of civil rights, economic opportunity, and progressive policies. His influence in Congress and his role in shaping national politics, particularly within the Democratic Party, have established him as a key figure in American politics.
James Clyburn’s Career Path to Congress
James Enos Clyburn was born on July 21, 1940, in Sumter, South Carolina1. His path to Congress includes:
Graduated from South Carolina State University in 1961.
Began his career as a public school teacher in Charleston, SC.
Served as an employment counselor and director of youth and community development programs.
Became the first African American advisor to a South Carolina governor in 1971.
Appointed as South Carolina Human Affairs Commissioner in 1974, serving until 1992.
Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1992, becoming the first African American since 1897 to serve as a U.S. representative from South Carolina
James Clyburn’s Sponsored Legislation
Clyburn has sponsored numerous bills throughout his congressional career, including:
The Rural Energy Savings Program, which provides loans for energy efficiency measures.
The “Accessible, Affordable Broadband for All” bill, included in the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure bill with $65 billion in funding.
Legislation to preserve and restore historic buildings on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) campuses.
Bills creating the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, the Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, and the Congaree National Park.
James Clyburn’s Stances on Social Issues
Clyburn has consistently supported progressive social policies:
Voted against the Secure the Border Act of 2023, which aimed to restrict asylum and reduce protections for children.
Opposed the Protecting Taxpayers and Victims of Unemployment Fraud Act, which would have penalized unemployment insurance recipients for inadvertent errors.
Supported President Biden’s student debt relief program, voting against a resolution to block it.
Voted against the Pandemic is Over Act, supporting continued federal response to COVID-19.
Stances on Economic Issues
On economic matters, Clyburn has generally aligned with labor unions and progressive policies:
Consistently voted for increases in minimum wage and to restrict employer interference with labor union organization.
Received a 100% score from the AFL-CIO for his voting record in 2023.
Opposed the CHOICE Arrangement Act, which would have loosened regulation of association health plans.
Voted against the Limit, Save, Grow Act of 2023, which proposed significant cuts to domestic spending.
Stances on National Defense
Clyburn’s record on national defense includes:
Voted for the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024, which extended the Federal Aviation Administration’s authorization and safeguarded pay for federal firefighters.
Supported the fiscal 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 8070).
6th Congressional District Demographics
As of the most recent available data, the 6th congressional district of South Carolina includes:
A majority-black population, with most of the majority-black precincts in and around Columbia and Charleston
Areas outside Beaufort and nearly all of South Carolina’s share of the Black Belt
Additional Information
Clyburn has served in various leadership positions, including House Majority Whip (2007-2011, 2019-2023) and House Assistant Democratic Leader (2011-2019, 2023-2024).
He played a pivotal role in the 2020 presidential election by endorsing Joe Biden before the South Carolina Democratic primary.
Clyburn has received numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024.
On environmental issues, Clyburn has opposed offshore drilling for oil or natural gas but has promoted nuclear energy as an alternative to fossil fuels.
He has consistently received high ratings from national labor unions for his voting record on labor and employment issues.