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Longtime Rep. Jim Clyburn Announces Reelection Bid
The 85-year-old South Carolina Democrat will seek an 18th term in the House of Representatives.
Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:36pm
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Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) announced on Thursday that he will run for reelection, despite speculation that he may retire. Clyburn, who has served in the House for over 33 years, said he seriously considered retiring but ultimately decided to mount a "vigorous campaign" for an 18th term after consulting with his daughters and constituents.
Why it matters
Clyburn's decision to run for reelection is significant as he is one of the most senior and influential Democrats in Congress. His continued presence in the House could help shape the party's agenda and leadership, especially if Democrats regain control of the chamber in the upcoming midterm elections.
The details
Clyburn, who is 85 years old, said he was responding to the message he received from his constituents, who told him "We don't want you to leave." He acknowledged that he seriously considered retirement but ultimately decided to run for another term. Clyburn's potential reelection would push his political survival beyond that of other longtime Democratic leaders like Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer, who are retiring at the end of the current term.
- Clyburn announced his reelection bid on March 13, 2026.
- Clyburn has served in the House of Representatives for over 33 years.
The players
Rep. James Clyburn
An 85-year-old Democratic congressman who has represented South Carolina's 6th congressional district since 1993.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries
The current House Minority Leader, who has expressed interest in having Clyburn be part of his leadership team if Democrats regain control of the House.
Former President Joe Biden
Awarded Clyburn the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024, citing Clyburn's role in helping Biden win the 2020 Democratic primary in South Carolina.
What they’re saying
“We exist in pursuit of a more perfect union. There's nobody here today who thinks that this country is perfect. It is not a perfect country. But I don't think there's anybody today who believe that we should give up on that pursuit of perfection, and I'm here today to say I do believe that I'm very well equipped and healthy enough to move into the next term, trying to do the things that are necessary to continue that pursuit of perfection.”
— Rep. James Clyburn
“Always grounded in faith, family and service, Jim has guided South Carolina and our country with a steady hand and honest heart for over the last half century. I would not be standing here as president making these awards were it not for Jim. I mean that sincerely.”
— Former President Joe Biden
What’s next
Clyburn said he would not say whether this term, if reelected, would be his final one, stating "This could very well be my last term, and it could very well not be."
The takeaway
Clyburn's decision to run for reelection at the age of 85 underscores his continued commitment to public service and the Democratic party. His experience and influence could be crucial for House Democrats as they seek to regain control of the chamber in the upcoming midterm elections.
