Veteran Dem Rep. Jim Clyburn to Run for 18th Term in Congress

The 85-year-old South Carolina lawmaker plans to continue serving as an influential elder statesman.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:37pm

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U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, the dean of South Carolina's Democrats, announced that he will run for an 18th term in the House of Representatives. At 85, Clyburn is among the oldest Democrats in Congress and the only member of the previous Democratic leadership team seeking to remain in office. His decision could position him as an influential elder statesman if his party regains control of the House.

Why it matters

Clyburn's continued presence in Congress could provide stability and experience for the Democratic party, especially if Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York becomes the first Black speaker of the House. Clyburn's long tenure also highlights the generational shift happening within the Democratic leadership.

The details

Clyburn, who has served in the House since 1992, said he plans to keep campaigning as long as his health and family support remain strong. He previously served as majority whip and assistant Democratic leader. If elected to an 18th term, Clyburn would become the longest-serving South Carolinian in the U.S. House, surpassing the tenures of former Senators Strom Thurmond and Fritz Hollings.

  • Clyburn announced his plans to run for re-election on March 12, 2026.
  • South Carolina's primary elections will be held on June 9, 2026.
  • Filing for the 2026 elections in South Carolina opens on March 30, 2026 and closes the same day.

The players

Jim Clyburn

An 85-year-old U.S. Representative from South Carolina who has served in the House since 1992 and is the dean of the state's Democratic delegation.

Hakeem Jeffries

A U.S. Representative from New York who is in line to become the first Black speaker of the House if the Democrats regain control of Congress.

Nancy Pelosi

The former Speaker of the House who plans to retire at the end of her current term.

Steny Hoyer

The former House Majority Leader who also plans to retire at the end of his current term.

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What they’re saying

“I've told them, 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. And so far, they're telling me, from what they feel and hear, I should keep going.”

— Jim Clyburn, U.S. Representative

What’s next

Filing for the 2026 elections in South Carolina opens on March 30, 2026 and the state's primary elections will be held on June 9, 2026.

The takeaway

Clyburn's decision to run for an 18th term in Congress underscores the generational shift happening within the Democratic party leadership. His continued presence could provide stability and experience, especially if Rep. Hakeem Jeffries becomes the first Black speaker of the House.