Jim Clyburn Announces Bid For 18th Congressional Term/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Veteran South Carolina Democrat Jim Clyburn announced he will run for an 18th term in the U.S. House. At 85, Clyburn remains one of the most senior and influential Democrats in Congress. His continued service could position him as a key figure if Democrats regain the House majority.
Jim Clyburn 18th Term Quick Looks
- Rep. Jim Clyburn, 85, will seek an 18th term in Congress.
- He has represented South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District since 1992.
- Clyburn previously served as House Majority Whip and assistant Democratic leader.
- He was for years the highest-ranking Black member of the House.
- Former Democratic leaders Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer are retiring.
- Democrats could elect Hakeem Jeffries as the first Black House Speaker if they regain control.
- Clyburn won reelection in 2024 by more than 20 percentage points.
- His district spans Columbia to Charleston and several rural counties.
- An 18th term would make him the longest-serving House member from South Carolina.
- Filing for South Carolina elections runs March 30 deadline, with primaries June 9.
Deep Look
Jim Clyburn Announces Run for 18th Term in Congress
Veteran Democratic lawmaker Jim Clyburn of South Carolina announced Thursday that he will run for an 18th term in the U.S. House of Representatives, extending a political career that has made him one of the most influential figures in Congress.
At 85 years old, Clyburn remains one of the most senior members of the Democratic Party in Washington and the only member of the party’s previous leadership team planning to continue serving.
If reelected, Clyburn could play an important role in shaping Democratic leadership should the party regain control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections.
A Longtime Democratic Power Broker
Clyburn has held several key leadership positions during his decades in Congress.
He previously served as House Majority Whip and later as assistant Democratic leader, roles that placed him at the center of legislative negotiations and party strategy.
For many years, he was also the highest-ranking Black member of the House, making him a prominent voice on issues affecting minority communities and civil rights.
His influence extends beyond Congress as well. Clyburn has long been considered a critical political figure in South Carolina, particularly during presidential primaries where his endorsement has carried significant weight.
Potential Role in Future Democratic Leadership
If Democrats reclaim the House majority in November, Clyburn could serve alongside House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who is widely expected to become the first Black Speaker of the House if the party wins control.
Two longtime Democratic leaders are stepping away from Congress:
- Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi
- Former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer
Their departures would leave Clyburn as one of the most experienced figures remaining in Democratic leadership circles.
A Career Spanning More Than Three Decades
Clyburn was first elected to Congress in 1992 and has represented South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District ever since.
The district includes:
- Areas around the state capital of Columbia
- Rural communities across central South Carolina
- Coastal regions stretching toward Charleston
Clyburn has consistently won reelection by comfortable margins. In 2024, he secured another term with a victory margin of more than 20 percentage points.
Commitment to Continue Serving
When Clyburn previously announced his bid for another term in 2022, he said his decision to continue serving depended on both his health and encouragement from his family.
He recalled asking his daughters to let him know when it might be time to step away from public office.
“If you ever see that I need to go to the rocking chair or spend my spare time on the golf course, let me know,” he said.
So far, he said, his family continues to support his decision to remain in Congress.
A Historic Milestone Within Reach
If elected again and completing another term, Clyburn would become the longest-serving South Carolinian ever elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.
While House service records in the state are shorter, South Carolina has produced several long-serving senators.
Notably:
- Strom Thurmond, a Republican, served 48 years in the Senate.
- Fritz Hollings, a Democrat, served nearly 39 years.
Clyburn’s continued service would add to South Carolina’s long history of influential lawmakers in Washington.
2026 Election Timeline
The filing period for South Carolina’s 2026 elections opens Monday and runs through March 30.
The state’s primary elections are scheduled for June 9, which will determine party nominees for the general election later in the year.
With his experience, political influence and strong support in his district, Clyburn is expected to remain a formidable candidate as he seeks another term.
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