Washington – As the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) prepares for its 50th Annual Legislative Conference at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center next month, Rep. James E. Clyburn (D‑SC) emphasized that the future of Black political leadership will be built “person by person” rather than through television campaigns.
Mentorship Over Media
“For the last 12 years I have been running the Clyburn Program,” Clyburn told the Washington Informer. “Rep. Bennie Thompson (D) is doing the same thing in Mississippi. All things don’t have to be done in Washington, D.C. I wish we would focus on what’s real. We are doing it.”
The congressman highlighted his weekly meetings with participants in the James E. Clyburn Political Fellowship, a program that trains young people for careers in political campaigns, local government and public policy. “We have monthly meetings,” he said. “I meet with the youth every day.”
Community‑Based Communication
Clyburn stressed that he has not run a television ad in three decades, opting instead for Black‑focused radio, robocalls, weekly videos and Black newspapers. “Black people do not own TV stations,” he noted, underscoring the importance of media that speaks directly to the community.
Historical Perspective
When asked about his legacy, Clyburn turned to his recent book, The First Eight, which chronicles the first eight African Americans elected to Congress from South Carolina. “There are 95 years between number eight and yours truly, number nine,” he said, reminding listeners that progress often comes in long, measured steps.
He also reflected on the nation’s shifting political tides, citing Reconstruction, the Brown v. Board of Education decision and the elections of Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden as examples of how history “rhymes.”
Current Challenges
Addressing the “second Trump administration,” Clyburn identified voting rights, housing affordability, health care, education and rising energy costs as immediate concerns. He warned that the average age of first‑time homebuyers has risen to 42, a milestone he reached while still paying off his own mortgage.
Clyburn urged Black voters to stay engaged, noting that when the white vote turned out 71 % two years ago and the Black vote 59 %, the outcome was clear. He added that a higher Black turnout could have altered the result of the 2024 election.
Views on the Trump Administration
The congressman reiterated his long‑standing warning that President Trump has no intention of leaving office. He also rejected comparisons of Trump to Adolf Hitler, stating, “Vladimir Putin is Hitler and Trump is Mussolini.” Clyburn argued that these historical lessons should guide lawmakers if Democrats regain a congressional majority.
Judicial Reform and Supreme Court Expansion
Calling the current Supreme Court “rogue,” Clyburn expressed support for legislation that would expand the Court, saying there is “no other way to look at it.” He warned that recent court decisions on voting rights and birthright citizenship could have lasting effects on Black political representation.
As the CBCF conference approaches, Clyburn’s message is clear: real change comes from personal mentorship, community‑focused communication and steadfast participation in the democratic process.
Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.
