url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-statement-on-the-passing-of-president-jimmy-carter/,Clyburn Statement On The Passing Of President Jimmy Carter,2024-12-29,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"SANTEE, SC — Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn released the following statement on the passing of the 39th President of the United States, James Earl Carter, Jr.:

“President Jimmy Carter lived a life devoted to public service, compassion, perseverance, human rights, and serving our great country.

“President Carter leaves an enduring legacy of international peace and diplomacy. On his second day of office, Carter pardoned all Vietnam War draft evaders. He brokered historic peace agreements between Egypt and Israel, created the Departments of Energy and Education, led efforts to negotiate a hostage crisis in Iran, signed the Panama Canal Treaty, created the Carter Center, and so much more.

“He was ardently committed to preventing and resolving state conflict, promoting freedom and democracy, and fostering the health of millions of people around the world.

“He was a man of faith, a proud son of Georgia, and a patriotic American who loved his country. He believed in better days ahead, togetherness, and the promise of America.

“President Carter once said, ‘Let us learn together and laugh together and work together and pray together, confident that in the end, we will triumph together in the right.’ Each day, let us live by these principles in our pursuit of a more just, equitable, and accessible country for all.

“It is with great sadness the nation mourns his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/icymi-clyburn-statement-on-president-biden-announcement-of-federal-death-row-commutations/,ICYMI: Clyburn Statement On President Biden Announcement Of Federal Death Row Commutations,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the following statement via on President Biden’s announcement of 37 federal death row commutations:

“I applaud President Biden in his decision to commute the sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row. Many death sentences, reflecting disparate treatment and inadequate defense counsel, have been unjustly adjudicated and wrongly administered. This historic and extraordinary action is a crucial step in remedying grave injustices,” said Congressman James E. Clyburn.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-statement-on-charleston-cigar-factory-designated-as-national-historic-landmark/,Clyburn Statement On Charleston Cigar Factory Designated As National Historic Landmark,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Secretary Haaland announced five new National Historic Landmarks, DOI’s highest recognition of a property’s historical, architectural, or archeological significance.

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) celebrated the announcement of the Charleston Cigar Factory designated as a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior. This new landmark, historically known as the American Cigar Company Building, will recognize the site where cigar factory workers – led by Black women – went on strike for better pay and working conditions, and against gender and racial discrimination on the job. The Biden-Harris Administration has invested more than $40 million to restore and support sites that recognize and elevate the stories of women who have shaped American history.

“Documenting and preserving the enduring legacy of civil rights could not be more paramount,” said Congressman James E. Clyburn. “The announcement of the Charleston Cigar Factory as a national landmark marks the conservation of a powerful history of Black women, forging a labor strike against discrimination, inadequate pay, and poor health benefits. The 1945 Charleston Cigar Factory Strike makes clear – those Black women who organized and collectively bargained, could not be silenced. This landmark will teach future generations of South Carolinians that no matter who you are, you stand on the shoulders of people who sought courage and determination to make a difference. You stand on the site of a great, historic, and extraordinary movement. It is a surprise to many that the iconic civil rights song, “We Shall Overcome,” which was popularized during the sixties – has its roots in this event.”

“As America’s storyteller, it is our privilege at the Department of the Interior, through the National Park Service, to tell our nation’s history and honor the many historical chapters and heroic communities that brought us to where we all are today,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “These newly designated historic landmarks – including Charleston Cigar Factory — join a list of the nation’s premier historic and cultural places, all of which were nominated through voluntary and locally led stewardship.”

“We are honored by the designation of the Cigar Factory as a National Historic Landmark,” said Lucile Cogswell & Jay Weaver, Cigar Factory Partners. “This building represents the bravery and resilience of workers who fought for fair wages, better conditions, and racial equality. Their actions shaped both labor and civil rights movements, and we are proud to help preserve this important piece of history for future generations.”

As directed by President Biden, DOI is releasing a new report on representation of women across sites of national importance, including National Historic Landmarks, national monuments, and national park sites. The report assesses which existing federal sites are significant to women’s history and offers opportunities to improve the recognition of women’s contributions to our country across the National Park Service, including through the National Historic Landmark program.

The Cigar Factory was constructed in 1881 as a cotton manufacturing facility with the latest technological advances of the day, such as electricity, steam heat and a fire safety system. The Charleston Cigar Factory Strike lasted for five months, from October 22, 1945 to April 1, 1946. The strike resulted from the company refusing to institute raises and racial discrimination. In response, more than 1,000 Cigar Factory employees, walked off their jobs on October 22, 1945, a majority of whom were African American women. Activists in Charleston specifically demanded a pay increase of 25 cents per hour and the ability to unionize to protect their civil rights.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-statement-on-the-passing-of-congressman-john-spratt/,Clyburn Statement On The Passing Of Congressman John Spratt,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"SANTEE, SOUTH CAROLINA — Today, Congressman Jim Clyburn released the following statement on the passing of former Congressman John Spratt:

“Serving in Congress with John Spratt was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. He was a friend and confidant, a colleague and counselor, and a mentor and partner. His love of country and respect for humanity were always on display. He was an inconspicuous genius and the most ordinary, extraordinary person I have ever known. I have been missing him for a long time and will always remember his wise counsel.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-statement-on-the-passing-of-south-carolina-state-senator-kay-patterson/,Clyburn Statement On The Passing Of South Carolina State Senator Kay Patterson,2024-12-13,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"SANTEE, SOUTH CAROLINA — Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the following statement on the passing of State Senator Kay Patterson:

“State Senator Kay Patterson was a trusted leader, a tireless champion for civil rights, and a treasured friend. He was a person of strength, determination, wisdom, and a long proponent of removing the Confederate flag from the South Carolina State House dome. Above all — he was a passionate voice for South Carolina’s families, serving over three decades in public service.

“Senator Patterson leaves a legacy that is certain to inspire many. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, and to the people of South Carolina touched over the decades by his remarkable life of strength and service.

“Senator Patterson will be missed greatly.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-statement-on-president-biden-providing-clemency-and-pardons-for-individuals-convicted-of-non-violent-crimes/,Clyburn Statement On President Biden Providing Clemency And Pardons For Individuals Convicted Of Non-Violent Crimes,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the following statement on President Joe Biden providing clemency for nearly 1,500 individuals on home confinement and pardons for 39 individuals convicted of non-violent crimes.

“I applaud President Biden for pardoning 39 people with non-violent convictions and commuting even more,” said Congressman James E. Clyburn. “This grant of clemency and restoration of rights is a significant step forward. Many people of color and moderate means have been disproportionately burdened by systemic injustices and clemency is a potent tool in the President’s toolbox to remedy some faults in our legal system. We have a leader in President Biden who is committed to tackling these injustices and has done that work in earnest.”

In November, Congressman Clyburn co-led a letter alongside Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05) to President Biden urging him to use his executive clemency power in the final months of his presidency to reunite families, address longstanding injustices in our legal system, and set our nation on the path toward ending mass incarceration. In their letter to President Biden, the lawmakers praised the President’s efforts to create a fair and just criminal legal system by pardoning 11 people convicted of simple marijuana possession.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-gillibrand-and-morelle-reintroduce-voter-empowerment-act/,"CLYBURN, GILLIBRAND, AND MORELLE REINTRODUCE VOTER EMPOWERMENT ACT",2024-09-24,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Congressman Joe Morelle (NY-25), the top Democrat of the Committee on House Administration, announced the bicameral reintroduction of the landmark Voter Empowerment Act to simultaneously protect and modernize our voter registration system and ensure Americans have unfettered access to the ballot box.

The Supreme Court of the United States eviscerated a central component of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 with their decision in Shelby County v. Holder, paving the way for states to pass new voting restrictions — from limits on absentee ballots to voter ID requirements. In the last 11 years, states have collectively adopted at least 94 laws that make it harder for Americans to vote. The Voter Empowerment Act would help eliminate these harmful barriers for voters by ensuring access to the ballot, preserving integrity in voting systems, and demanding accountability in elections.

“The right to vote helps to form the bedrock of our democracy. While it should be a sacred and affirmed right for every American, unfettered access to the ballot box is under attack in more than a dozen states around the country,” said Congressman Clyburn. “Our democracy is only as strong as our ability to protect it. With less than 45 days until the next 2024 Presidential contest, I urge my colleagues to join me in safeguarding the integrity of our elections.”

“The right to vote is sacred,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But as states around the country purge voter rolls and chip away at voting rights, Congress needs to take action. I am proud to join Congressman Clyburn in reintroducing the Voter Empowerment Act. This bill will make sure that every American can make their voice heard on Election Day and ensure that voting is equal, fair, and accessible for all Americans.”

“Our democracy is strongest when all eligible voters can cast their ballot. I am proud to join my colleagues Congressman Clyburn and Senator Gillibrand to introduce a bill that solves a problem in our elections process and protects Democracy. When it comes to ensuring equal access at the ballot box, we already know what we need to do. Thanks to the late, great John Lewis we have the needed solution to the identified problem. I am committed to getting this bill signed into law in honor of Congressman Lewis’ life and his dedication to fighting for freedom and protecting our democracy,” said Committee on House Administration Ranking Member Joe Morelle.

The Voter Empowerment Act of 2024 will:

Modernize and streamline voter registration;

Requires states to provide both same-day and online registration

Requires states to automatically register voters whose information passes through another state or federal agency

Prohibit interference in voter registration;

Prohibits anyone from hindering another person from registering to vote

Prohibits voter caging – the practice of removing voters from voter rolls because their mail was returned to sender

Improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities; and

Requires a broad range of improvements to voter registration, polling places, and absentee voting to better accommodate individuals with disabilities

Increase and protect access to the ballot box.

Establishes minimum requirements for early voting access

Prevents states from adding extra conditions to absentee voting

Requires states to notify individuals when their polling place changes

Allows a sworn written statement or student ID to fulfill state-mandated ID requirements

Restores federal voting rights for previously incarcerated Americans

Requires states to notify individuals of their rights",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-celebrates-nearly-850-million-for-south-carolina-to-support-americas-battery-manufacturing-sector-create-jobs-and-enhance-national-security/,"CLYBURN CELEBRATES NEARLY $850 MILLION FOR SOUTH CAROLINA TO SUPPORT AMERICA’S BATTERY MANUFACTURING SECTOR, CREATE JOBS, AND ENHANCE NATIONAL SECURITY",2024-09-20,2024,2024-09,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) today celebrated the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) announcement of nearly $850 million for South Carolina to boost the domestic production of advanced batteries and battery materials nationwide, the largest investment in any state in the nation.

Batteries are critical to strengthening the U.S. grid, powering American homes and businesses, and supporting the electrification of the transportation sector. Administered by DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC), the selected projects will retrofit, expand, and build new domestic facilities for battery-grade processed critical minerals, battery components, battery manufacturing, and recycling.

“No one has brought more manufacturing jobs back home to American soil, and more specifically South Carolina, than the Biden-Harris administration. In positioning South Carolina as a leader in the battery manufacturing space, the Biden-Harris administration is connecting communities to opportunity throughout the state for generations to come as we continue our transition toward a clean energy economy,” said Congressman Clyburn.

Companies in the sixth Congressional district will receive at least $350 million of the total $848,679,760 investment. A complete list of projects in South Carolina are as follows:

These grants were funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Congressman Clyburn was the sole House member in the South Carolina delegation to support it.

More information about the grants and MESC can be found here.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-leads-meeting-with-israeli-hostage-families/,CLYBURN LEADS MEETING WITH ISRAELI HOSTAGE FAMILIES,2024-07-24,2024,2024-07,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) led his colleagues in meeting with Israeli citizens whose families have suffered in the wake of the October 7th Hamas terror attack and kidnappings. Congressman Clyburn participated in this event in lieu of attending Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress that is scheduled for later today.

“This morning, my colleagues and I met with Israeli families who endured tremendous suffering in the wake of Hamas’ October 7th attack. Their courage and willingness to speak about such difficult times is deeply inspiring. Just as we stood together to honor the memories of the Israelis and Palestinians who have lost their lives in this tragic conflict, I hope we, as a Congress, can unite to ensure the safe return of the remaining hostages and work tirelessly to bring peace to the region through a committed pursuit of a two-state solution,” said Congressman Clyburn.

During the meeting, Congressman Clyburn delivered brief remarks followed by a conversation with the families. The event concluded with a moment of silence for all the victims — Israeli and Palestinian — of this catastrophic and tragic war.

Dozens of Members of Congress attended the meeting. Israeli hostage family member speakers included:

Maya Roman, the cousin of Yarden Roman-Gat, who was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and released after 54 days.

Efrat Machikawa, the niece of Gadi Moses, who was brutally abducted on October 7th.

Zahiro Shahar Mor, the nephew of Avraham Munder, who was brutally abducted on October 7th.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:24:45Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-celebrates-orangeburg-railroad-corner-redevelopment-groundbreaking/,CLYBURN CELEBRATES ORANGEBURG RAILROAD CORNER REDEVELOPMENT GROUNDBREAKING,2024-06-19,2024,2024-06,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"ORANGEBURG, S.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) celebrated the groundbreaking of the Railroad Corner Redevelopment project in Orangeburg, South Carolina. This project will revitalize downtown Orangeburg and unify the city’s business district and universities.

“It is an honor to participate in today’s groundbreaking. During my time as a student at South Carolina State, Orangeburg was a hub for innovation and industry. Now is the time for the city to reclaim that role once more,” Congressman Clyburn said. “Today marks the beginning of our efforts to revitalize and reconnect this historic and dynamic community.”

Once completed, the Railroad Corner Redevelopment Project will provide office and commercial space as well as housing for students at South Carolina State University and Claflin University. This project will also improve parking and transit infrastructure and provide a pedestrian bridge over highways and railroad tracks. Included in the redevelopment will be the Cecil Williams Civil Rights Museum, which will serve as the centerpiece of the redevelopment.

This redevelopment project was made possible through the $29 million in federal investments. This figure includes the more than $700,000 in community project funding that Congressman Clyburn secured for the restoration of the Old State Theatre, which is slated to house the Cecil Williams Civil Rights Museum, as part of the Fiscal Year 2023 minibus appropriations bill.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:11:47Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-statement-on-alexander-v-sc-state-conference-of-the-naacp-supreme-court-decision/,CLYBURN STATEMENT ON ALEXANDER V. SC STATE CONFERENCE OF THE NAACP SUPREME COURT DECISION,2024-05-23,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"COLUMBIA, S.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the NAACP.

“Today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision in Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the NAACP is further affirmation that this Court has chosen to disenfranchise Black voters and rob us of our fundamental access to the ballot box. Equitable representation is the hallmark of a healthy democracy and in this case, the Supreme Court is attempting to steer the country back to a dark place in our history.

“I am old enough to remember the indignities suffered by my parents and other Americans who looked like them. It’s clear, now more than ever, that efforts to disenfranchise Black voters and silence our voices are running rampant. Look no further than this decision and Justice Thomas’ disturbing critique of Brown v. Board of Education in his solo concurrence.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-celebrates-over-5-8-million-to-preserve-african-american-civil-rights-history/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN CELEBRATES OVER $5.8 MILLION TO PRESERVE AFRICAN AMERICAN CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORY,2024-05-07,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Columbia, S.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn celebrated the announcement of $5,805,625 in National Park Service (NPS) grants to preserve sites and stories of African American Civil Rights history across the state of South Carolina. A total of four South Carolina projects will receive funding.

“The Biden-Harris Administration has once again displayed their commitment to documenting and preserving African American’s rich history and enduring struggle for freedom and liberty,” said Congressman Clyburn. “South Carolina has always been a focal point for our nation’s history, especially civil rights history. This funding will help continue immortalizing our state’s role in the powerful legacy of African American’s fight for civil rights.”

This project was made possible through the NPS Historic Preservation Fund’s African American Civil Rights grant program, which provided $23.4 million to 39 projects in 16 states and the District of Columbia.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-to-receive-presidential-medal-of-freedom/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN TO RECEIVE PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM,2024-05-03,2024,2024-05,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, President Joe Biden announced U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The award will be presented at the White House on Friday, May 3, 2024.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors.

“Words cannot express the profound honor and gratitude I feel upon receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This recognition is not only a testament to my work, but also to the countless individuals who have supported my journey; the giants who fought alongside me for justice, equity, and the pursuit of progress; and the support of my loving family,” said Congressman Clyburn.

“I am immensely grateful to President Biden for this incredible honor and take seriously the responsibility it carries. While it serves as a recognition of one’s accomplishments, it is also an astute reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. It speaks to the duty each and every one of us has to further the founding fathers’ dream of a ‘more perfect union.’ I accept this award with deep humility and the promise to uphold this vision,” he continued.

“I reflect upon the moment I was elected president of my NAACP Youth Council in Sumter, South Carolina, at the age of 12. From leading student protests in Orangeburg, South Carolina, to marshaling majorities to pass consequential legislation in Congress, I have learned that we all have roles to play in making the greatness of this democracy accessible for everyone,” he explained. “I look forward to continuing my efforts to bend the arc of history towards justice and proving myself worthy of this incredible honor.”

The following individuals will also be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Friday:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:01:11Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/rep-clyburn-op-ed-sc-needs-to-repair-a-fault-by-investing-more-in-sc-state-university/,REP. CLYBURN OP-ED: “SC NEEDS TO ‘REPAIR A FAULT’ BY INVESTING MORE IN SC STATE UNIVERSITY”,2024-04-24,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"This was originally published by The Post and Courier on April 23, 2024

I often quote Alexis de Tocqueville, the Frenchman who visited the United States in the 1830s and, in spite of some obvious imperfections in our system, opined, “The greatness of America lies not in being more enlightened than any other nation, but rather in her ability to repair her faults.”

Given the current fiscal outlook in South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster’s economic development successes, a projected $1.6 billion budget surplus and the recent discovery of $1.8 billion in unobligated funds in the state’s coffers, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to repair some nagging faults that have existed in our beloved state for far too long.

Come July 21, I will celebrate the 45th anniversary of my 39th birthday. I have spent most of these years reading and writing about our state’s and nation’s history. For many of those years, I have worked closely with some enlightened, although not perfect, political leaders. In fact, I have worked for, and at the behest of, four South Carolina governors: John Carl West, James B. Edwards, Richard W. Riley and Carroll A. Campbell — two Democrats and two Republicans. From my studies and experiences, I have become keenly aware of our beloved state’s trials, tribulations and triumphs.

In the early 1970s, I spent nearly four years on the personal staff of Gov. West, and I remember the year we experienced a 14% growth rate. When we developed our budget for the coming year, the governor undertook efforts to use that unexpected windfall to repair some of the faults that existed in our state.

A 1970 study revealed that because of some long-standing conditions, most black college graduates did not pursue professional careers in South Carolina and were leaving the state in droves. As a result, the governor proposed, and the Legislature created, the S.C. Human Affairs Commission to address that fault. Safe, sanitary and affordable housing — especially in our rural communities — were scarce, and the state created the S.C. Housing Authority to address that fault. The state’s old “planning districts” were transformed into councils of government, which were given the authority to repair some faults and make our small, mostly rural communities more livable and attractive for public and private investments. The missions of these entities continue today.

South Carolina is blessed with two outstanding land-grant universities: Clemson, established by the 1862 Morrill Act, and South Carolina State, established by the 1890 Morrill Act. Land-grant colleges and universities were created to provide higher education and training in agriculture, mechanical arts and military science and tactics.

When the General Assembly established S.C. State in 1896, it assumed the responsibility of providing equitable funding between our two land-grant institutions. In recent years, however, South Carolina has fallen short of this obligation, which has created a fault that needs to be repaired.

Last year, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack jointly sent letters to the 16 states with 1890 land grant institutions, citing data that show during the past 30 years, our state has underfunded S.C. State University by $469.9 million. Our current fiscal condition provides South Carolina with an opportunity to repair this fault.

Correcting the historic and long-standing underinvestment in our rural communities and in South Carolina State University, our state’s only public historically black college, could unleash greater growth in South Carolina and position the state for three research universities, as designated by Gov. McMaster and the Legislature, to take advantage of historic public and private funding opportunities.

HBCUs have proven records for preparing students from traditionally neglected communities and families with limited resources. With smaller class sizes and a strong focus on mentorship, these students develop the skills and tools that propel them to succeed as engineers, medical professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs and much more.

As our state’s economy grows, I hope our leadership will seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make the greatness of our nation accessible and affordable for all South Carolinians.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/reconnecting-communities-steve-benjamin-joins-clyburn-podcast-april-episode/,RECONNECTING COMMUNITIES: STEVE BENJAMIN JOINS CLYBURN PODCAST APRIL EPISODE,2024-04-04,2024,2024-04,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) released the newest edition of the Clyburn Chronicles podcast featuring Steve Benjamin, former mayor of Columbia, South Carolina, current Senior Advisor to the President, and Director of the Office of Public Engagement in the Biden Administration.

Benjamin began by explaining the importance of the Office of Public Engagement, which he describes as “the front door to the White House.”

“My grandmother would say, ‘You know, God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason: You listen twice as much as you talk.’ It’s one thing to go and tell people the great things that are happening under the Administration’s leadership,” said Benjamin. “It’s more valuable to actually be able to listen and to get constructive input, constructive criticism from people, about, okay, this is what’s happening on the ground where real people are working every single day to live up to their God given potential.”

The pair also underscored the importance of reconnecting communities that have been divided by previous generations of American infrastructure — a core component of Benjamin’s work in the Biden Administration.

“When you reconnect these communities, you give people an opportunity to interact with each other. You give businesses a chance to grow and flourish, and you improve the lives of children, being able to really go to school in their communities rather than getting bussed out of communities,” said Congressman Clyburn.

The two closed by connecting over the phenomenon of Republicans voting against signature pieces of the President’s agenda but taking credit for the recent influx of investments in their communities.

Congressman Clyburn explained that rather than attend a campaign fundraiser in New York, he went and “talked about rural water down in Berkeley County. A tremendous $24 million addition we’re making to that water system down there. So, I decided I’ll stay here, and go to that groundbreaking, so nobody else will get the credit.”

Benjamin laughed, saying “Because, you know they’ll vote no, and they’ll show up at the groundbreaking or the ribbon cutting and everything else. You’ve got to go make sure you go.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:47:55Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/clyburn-hails-house-passage-of-fiscal-year-2024-government-funding-package-233-2-million-for-sc-06/,"CLYBURN HAILS HOUSE PASSAGE OF FISCAL YEAR 2024 GOVERNMENT FUNDING PACKAGE, $233.2 MILLION FOR SC-06",2024-03-06,2024,2024-03,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn hailed the House passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024. This legislation includes $233,264,279 to fund community projects in the Sixth Congressional District of South Carolina, as well as additional funding for key priorities and other legislative items. The community project funding allocations were requested by local entities to address community needs. The bill now heads to the Senate for final passage.

“I’ve dedicated my time in Congress to ensuring the federal government invests in each and every community, especially those that have been historically neglected. This funding responds directly to some of the most pressing needs in our community,” said Congressman Clyburn. “These investments will help grow our economy, improve our water supply, support our HBCUs, connect rural communities with healthcare, and more. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to make America’s greatness accessible and affordable to all.”

South Carolina 6th District projects funded in the FY2024 appropriations legislation are:

Grantee Project Description Amount Allen University Allen University Agribusiness Incubator $850,000.00 Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority Waterline Extension & Fire Safety Improvements $750,000.00 Benedict College Benedict College Academic Center $850,000.00 Charleston Co. Aviation Authority Charleston Int’l Airport Construction of Airport Apron $23,000,000.00 Charleston County Economic Development $7,000,000.00 Charleston Harbor Harbor deepening reimbursement $25,000,000.00 City of Charleston Tidal and Inland Flooding Study $600,000.00 City of Columbia Riverview Terrace Water Main Replacement $575,000.00 City of Columbia Assembly Street Rail Separation Project $10,000,000.00 City of Sumter Drug and Substance Analyzer local law enforcement equipment purchase – $157,000.00 City of Sumter Sumter County North Main Street Enhancements Project $1,000,000.00 Claflin University Claflin University Welcome Center at Railroad Corner $1,000,000.00 College of Charleston SC Marine Resource Center renovation $1,325,000.00 Denmark Technical College Facility Improvement Project $1,000,000.00 Ft. Jackson Additional funding for the construction of Reception Barracks Complex, Phase 2 at Ft. Jackson $101,000,000.00 Historic Charleston Foundation Repair of historic structures/affordable housing $1,250,000.00 Joint Base Charleston Additional funding for the construction of National Guard Readiness Center at Joint Base Charleston $6,500,000.00 Lakes Marion and Moultrie Lake Marion Regional Water Agency Construction $23,769,000.00 Morris College Morris College Law Enforcement Training Certificate Program $963,000.00 Orangeburg County Construction of County Law Enforcement Complex $886,000.00 Pee Dee Healthy Start, Inc. Bridging the Gap $963,000.00 South Carolina State University Rural Telehealth Initiative $1,000,000.00 Town of Lincolnville Town of Lincolnville Charles Ross Building Improvements $4,116,279.00 University of South Carolina University of South Carolina – Center for Civil Rights History & Research $1,050,000.00 University of South Carolina Development and expansion of semiconductor manufacturing $4,500,000.00 University of South Carolina Research for advanced battery storage $2,160,000.00 University of South Carolina Construction of ROTC Facility at USC $10,000,000.00 Voorhees University Rural Workforce Institute $1,000,000.00 Walterboro-Colleton County Airport Commission Lowcountry Regional Airport Runway 5/23 Pavement Rehabilitation Project $500,000.00 Williamsburg County Williamsburg County Waste Management Improvement $500,000.00

In addition to securing funding for these community projects, additional priorities were included in the spending package impacting South Carolina:

Community Health Centers will receive the largest increase in mandatory funding in a decade at a rate of $4.4 billion through the end of the year;

Funds the Southeast Regional Crescent Commission at $20 million, equal to the Fiscal Year 2023 level;

Fully funds WIC, SNAP and child nutrition programs;

Increases funding for rental assistance through the Housing Choice Voucher program;

Includes $188,666,000 for the Historic Preservation Fund; and

Includes $10 million for workforce development and training partnerships at HBCUs in South Carolina and Hispanic Serving Institutions and Tribal Colleges in New Mexico will receive to support plutonium pit production.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:32:04Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-delivers-remarks-at-convening-of-south-carolina-association-of-technical-college-commissioners/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN DELIVERS REMARKS AT CONVENING OF SOUTH CAROLINA ASSOCIATION OF TECHNICAL COLLEGE COMMISSIONERS,2024-02-06,2024,2024-02,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) delivered remarks at a convening of the South Carolina Association of Technical College Commissioners to highlight the Biden-Harris Administration’s continued contributions to the technical college system in South Carolina. Remarks as prepared for delivery are below.

As Prepared for Delivery

Thank you for having me here today. I appreciate this opportunity to address you, the leaders of South Carolina’s network of outstanding community colleges. I also want to thank Savannah River Nuclear Solutions for hosting this luncheon and for their innovations at the one HBCU in your network, Denmark Tech.

You all share the responsibility for continuing to produce South Carolinians who are equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet the needs of our state’s dynamic economy. The program provides funding for equipment, scholarships, and employee training that aligns with the pit production mission at the Savannah River Site. You all work every day to prepare these students for our state’s rapidly developing renewable energy and manufacturing sectors.

As a former teacher, I know all too well how impactful training at your institutions can be for these students. The education they receive opens doors to gainful employment that can be life-changing for the financial security of multiple generations.

It is for this reason that my Democratic colleagues and I supported the House-passed Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022, which reauthorized WIOA until 2028 in the last Congress. This legislation would offer sustained, reliable funding to technical colleges to meet their aim of providing job training and workforce development for students. WIOA is currently being extended through Continuing Resolutions for government funding.

I am committed, as you are, to ensuring your institutions are supported so that our students who have little interest in a Liberal Arts education and may be from low-income households, and historically marginalized communities, are not left behind as the wheel of progress turns forward. And that progress is happening quickly. We’ve seen the manufacturing sector swell and job opportunities multiply in recent years, due to the historic investment of the American Rescue Plan, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act.

A few excellent examples are Redwood Materials, who in December of 2022 announced a $3.5 billion investment to construct a new electric battery facility in Berkeley County—the largest single economic development announcement in the state’s history. AESC is investing $810 million for a battery plant in Florence County and creating 450 new jobs. Redwood intends to hire around 1,500 employees in Berkley. Kontrolmatik in Colleton announced a $279 million project, projected to create 575 jobs; Tin Thanh Troup’s Tire plant in Allendale is projected to create 1,000 jobs; Volkswagen’s Scout facility announced a $2 billion investment in Richland County, projected to create 4,000 jobs; SEM Wafertech, a solar manufacturer, is investing $66 million in Sumter, which is projected to create 300 jobs.

These are examples of forward momentum the Biden Administration and Democratic policies have fostered in several counties in the 6th Congressional District. Nationally, the monthly jobs report released last Friday reported 353,000 new jobs — double the job growth that was expected. The economic growth for last quarter is reported to have been 3.3 percent, also double that which had been projected. Technical and colleges are at the forefront of this growth, ensuring South Carolina’s residents are positioned to take advantage of these opportunities and meet employers’ expectations by closing the skill gap.

Your mission of providing an affordable educational experience has worked in tandem with the Biden Administration’s focus on addressing the nation’s student debt crisis. Historic improvements to Income-Driven Repayment and Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs are being implemented to ensure that the students who graduate from your institutions do not carry their student debt with them for decades of their lives.

Graduates of your institutions stand to benefit the most from the additional student debt forgiveness that, starting this month, will be provided to borrowers who took out $12,000 or less and have made payments for a minimum of 10 years under President Biden’s SAVE Income-Driven Repayment program. You are meeting the challenge of providing a quality education at an affordable cost head-on. Hopefully, we will continue working together to ensure that America’s greatness is accessible and affordable for all.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T20:21:00Z
https://clyburn.house.gov/congressman-clyburn-announces-nearly-2-million-in-federal-funding-for-voorhees-university/,CONGRESSMAN CLYBURN ANNOUNCES NEARLY $2 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR VOORHEES UNIVERSITY,2024-01-16,2024,2024-01,Democrat,House,SC,James E. Clyburn,C000537,clyburn.house.gov,clyburn,https://clyburn.house.gov/press-releases/,scraper,"Columbia, S.C. – Today, Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06) announced that South Carolina was awarded $1,965,332 in funding for Voorhees University, one of South Carolina’s eight HBCUs. Administered through the United States Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program (RPED), this funding will help students in rural communities transition from high school to college and transfers from two-year to four-year institutions.

“Time and again, the Biden-Harris Administration has shown tremendous dedication to our nation’s HBCUs, and more specifically, institutions of higher learning in South Carolina. Thanks to this latest investment, students at Voorhees University will have the tools they need to succeed,” said Congressman Clyburn. “I am pleased to see Voorhees University receive this invaluable support as they shape the next generation of leaders.”

“This grant will serve as the catalyst that drives the socio-economic vehicle destined to elevate the quality of life for citizens in and around the Denmark, South Carolina area,” said Voorhees University president, Ronnie Hopkins. “I express profound gratitude to Congressman Clyburn and President Biden for entrusting Voorhees University with spearheading the Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program. Their unwavering confidence in Voorhees University underscores our commitment to steering this community toward the next level of excellence.”

The Department of Education awarded 22 institutions of higher education RPED grants to help improve rates of postsecondary education enrollment, persistence, and completion among students in rural communities. These grants will also provide career counseling and individualized student planning to help create pathways for students to find rewarding careers that do not require them to leave their home for economic opportunities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T23:46:48Z