James E. Clyburn is a prominent U.S. Congressman representing South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District since 1993. He has held significant leadership roles in the House of Representatives, including serving as House Majority Whip during multiple terms (2007–2010, 2019–2022) and Assistant Democratic Leader (2011–2018, 2023–March 2024), becoming the first African American to serve multiple terms as Majority Whip[1][3][5]. Born in Sumter, South Carolina, Clyburn is the son of an activist minister and a civic-minded beautician. He graduated from South Carolina State College in 1961 and began his career as a public-school teacher in Charleston. He later worked as an employment counselor and director of youth and community development programs. In 1971, he became the first African American advisor to a South Carolina governor and served as South Carolina Human Affairs Commissioner from 1974 to 1992 before entering Congress[1][3][4]. Clyburn has been a key figure in advancing rural and economic development and historic preservation. His 10-20-30 federal funding formula, which allocates 10% of funds to communities with long-term poverty, was incorporated into the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. He also authored legislation elevating Congaree National Monument to a National Park and established heritage corridors recognizing South Carolina’s cultural history[5][7]. He chaired the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis starting in 2020, overseeing investigations into the U.S. pandemic response[3][5]. Throughout his career, Clyburn has been a steadfast supporter of historically black colleges and universities and has restored numerous historic buildings on their campuses[5][7]. Married for 58 years to the late Emily England Clyburn, whom he met during civil rights activism, he is a father of three daughters and has four grandchildren. Clyburn’s career reflects deep roots in civil rights, public service, and legislative leadership, maintaining relevance as a senior leader in the Democratic Party[3][7].