Democrat Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC) has stepped down from his role as House assistant Democratic leader after just over one year in the powerful position.
The move will change the makeup of the House Democrat leadership in a big way after the veteran leader announced he’s stepping out of his role.
According to the Washington Examiner, Clyburn announced that he’ll be stepping down from his caucus leadership role, despite his intentions to run for reelection this year.
Clyburn, 83, did not reveal any specific reasons as to why he’s stepping down.
However, many believe it’s due to Democrats wanting younger, fresher leadership in the lower chamber.
The elderly Democrat has been one of President Joe Biden’s top allies in Congress.
He is credited with helping Biden secure the nomination in the last election due to his high-profile and influential status in his home state of South Carolina.
Clyburn announced the decision to step down from his leadership position this week and expressed confidence in the remaining leaders of the House Democratic Caucus.
The Examiner noted:
He expressed confidence in the current Democratic leadership, including Jeffries, Minority Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA), and Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar (D-CA), to “continue the important work of putting people over politics.”
He informed Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) of his intent to step down.
“I have informed Leader Hakeem Jeffries of my intention to step down as Assistant Democratic Leader of the House Democratic Caucus,” a statement on his website read.
“I am deeply grateful for the confidence my colleagues have placed in me throughout my career, especially as Co-President of my Freshman Class, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Vice Chair and Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, and twice as Majority Whip and Assistant Democratic Leader.”
Clyburn also made it clear in his statement that he fully intends to run a reelection campaign, stating that the “greatness of America is at peril.”
“I will run for re-election for the Sixth Congressional District,” he said.
“Events of the last several years have made it clear that the greatness of America is at peril, and the threats to our continued pursuit of ‘a more perfect Union’ are real.”
Users across social media reacted to the news of Clyburn stepping down.
Many argue that it’s “about time” given his age.
“About time,” one X user wrote.
“James Clyburn is reading the tea leaves on Columbia South Carolina and it’s not gonna make him look good.
“It’s time for the SC young political bucks to Primary this man and take over.
“Clyburn is out of step with reality.”
Another X user wrote, “But of course he has no intention of leaving; like the rest of the progressives clinging to power is their life’s blood.”
It’ll be interesting to see who House leaders select to replace Clyburn.
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