| Press Releases : 2007
Clyburn Urges President not to Abandon Troops in their Time of Need
December 28, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement as President Bush considers vetoing the FY 2008 Defense Authorization Bill over recent objections to section 1083, a provision that strengthens the ability of victims of the brutality of Saddam Hussein to seek compensation. "I urge the President not to turn his back on our troops or halt programs designed to enhance our national security capabilities by vetoing the Defense Authorization bill.
Clyburn on Assassination of Benazir Bhutto
December 27, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister and opposition leader Benazir Bhutto. “I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the family and supporters of Benazir Bhutto as they mourn her unfortunate and untimely demise. The cowardice exhibited by the extremists who carried out this assassination stands as another reminder of the clear and imminent threat that terrorists pose to humanity and the advancement of democracy.
House Approves Enhanced Penalties for Perpetrators of Disaster Relief Fraud Schemes
December 19, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. –“The Emergency and Disaster Assistance Fraud Penalty Enhancement Act provides for increased penalties for persons convicted of fraud or theft offenses in connection with a major natural disaster. “Any individual attempting to profit off of the hardships endured by others will be pursued, prosecuted, and punished up to the fullest extent of the law.”
New Direction Congress Completes One Year of Business
December 19, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. –“Since regaining our majorities in both the House and Senate, Congressional Democrats have moved our country in a New Direction with the passage of legislation that more adequately secures our homeland, increases the minimum wage, makes college more affordable, reduces our dependence on foreign oil, helps rebuild the Gulf Coast and improves the standards of living of our nation’s veterans.
House Approves Landmark Energy Bill
December 18, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 6, the Energy Independence and Security Act. “The innovative mandates in the Energy Independence and Security Act will increase the CAFE standards for all vehicles to 35 miles per gallon by 2020. Furthermore, the fuel efficiency authorizations in this bill are estimated to save American families close to $1,000 a year at the gas pump and will produce an estimated $22 billion in net annual savings for our nation’s consumers.
House Approves Drought Relief for Farmers
December 17, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. –“South Carolina’s farmers have been devastated by record drought conditions this year. I’m pleased we were able to take an important step forward tonight to provide these farmers with some hope and stability for the future. This legislation extends disaster assistance to farmers hit this year by natural disaster, like the drought in the southeast region of the country. America’s farmers are the heart of our economy, I hope the Senate will approve this legislation so we can support the people who nourish our families and fuel our country.”
Clyburn Responds to President Bush's Economic Speech
December 17, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. –House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement in response to President Bush’s speech in Fredericksburg, Virginia regarding the status of the U.S. economy and the federal budgetary process.“Today, the President tried to ‘spin’ his way to a strong economy. The reality is that his misplaced priorities have created a struggling economy and are putting the squeeze on the pocketbooks of middle class families.
Clyburn on the Passing of Rep. Julia Carson
December 15, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. –“I’m saddened by the passing of my friend and colleague, Juila Carson. She served with passion, dedication and a sense of humor. It was her strength and determination to overcome obstacles of poverty and racism, and her commitment to the people of Indiana that made her stand out as a leader in Congress. After serving 18 years in the Indiana General Assembly and six years as Center Township Trustee, she became the first woman and first African American to represent Indianapolis. Her commitment to improving financial literacy and healthcare for all Americans, her work to establish a congressional Gold Medal for Rosa Parks and her lifetime of pubic service will serve as her living legacy. My thoughts and prayers go to her friends and family during this time of grief.”
Clyburn Encourages President to Support Intelligence Legislation
December 13, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. –“Today, the House approved a bill that gives our intelligence community the tools they need to combat terrorist organizations and other entities that pose vital threats to our national security. This bill also unequivocally prohibits members of the United States intelligence community from torturing or inhumanely subjecting those in U.S. custody to the cruel and archaic practice known as waterboarding.
Clyburn Backs Legislation that Supports Our Troops
December 12, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 1585, the National Defense Authorization Act Conference Report: “H.R. 1585 makes substantial increases in our defense budget for additional armored Humvees and increased protection from IEDs. This appropriations bill also provides our troops with a pay raise and makes vital investments to TRICARE, the United States military's health care plan for military personnel and their dependents.
House Passes Tax Equity Bill
December 12, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The AMT Relief Act works to responsibly shield 23 million hard-working American families from getting hit with an unfair tax increase. And unlike President Bush’s tax cuts for the wealthy, the targeted middle-class tax relief offered in this Democratic-sponsored proposal is paid for and will do nothing to increase our looming budget deficits.
Clyburn Supports Terrorism Insurance Legislation
December 12, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 4299, the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007: “H.R. 4299 seeks to maintain our economic vitality through such attacks by making sure that terrorism insurance is made available for long-term construction projects taking place in some of America’s busiest and most vulnerable metropolitan areas. Furthermore, this legislation works to make sure that group life insurance carriers remain solvent and capable of paying large-scale claims in such unfortunate circumstances.
Clyburn Chides President for SCHIP Veto
December 12, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“It would appear that the Grinch came early this holiday season, as President Bush has once again vetoed SCHIP legislation and denied vital health care services to millions of needy children. “Instead of engaging in a bipartisan and bicameral dialogue with Congress on ways to better the lives of our nation’s neediest populations, this Administration has chosen to stand in the way of progress with obstructionist vetoes and arbitrary stalling tactics.
Clyburn Agrees with New Drug Sentencing Guidelines
December 11, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip and former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, James E. Clyburn, today released the following statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling Monday that federal judges can impose shorter sentences for crack cocaine crimes, making them more in line with those for powder cocaine.
House Approves Landmark Energy Independence Bill
December 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The Energy Independence and Security Act will aid those Americans immobilized by high gas prices by requiring automobile manufacturers to substantially increase the fuel efficiency standards of their vehicles. Furthermore, this legislation reaffirms this Congress’ commitment to moving our nation’s energy policies in a New Direction through the inclusion of environmentally friendly mandates which require that 15 percent of our electricity come from renewable sources.
Clyburn on DOD Authorization and Hate Crimes Legislation
December 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“I am pleased we are moving forward with legislation to provide our military with the resources they need, including restoring readiness, a much-deserved troop pay raise, vital improvements to the DOD health system and increased resources for military families. Congress must pass this bill before we adjourn.
Clyburn Responds to Obstructionist President
December 4, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—"Congress is actively working in a bipartisan way to meet the needs of the American people and move the country in a New Direction. The House has passed a bill that provides our troops on the ground the resources they need. The Congress has also offered to meet the President half-way on our spending differences, but he refuses to respond. This week, Congress will move landmark energy independence legislation that will strengthen national security, protect our environment, grow our economy and create new jobs, reduce energy prices, and begin to address global warming. Also this week, House leaders will hold a summit to determine how we can address the growing uncertainty in the economy and protect middle class families struggling to make ends meet.
Clyburn Receives Difference Maker Award From Urban League of Greater Kansas City
December 4, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—Clyburn is being recognized for his public service as Representative for the 6th Congressional District of South Carolina, former Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, chairman of the Faith Working Group and most recently Majority Whip of the 110th Congress. Clyburn is also being honored for his work as a civil rights activist. Among other things, he was the star witness in a 1960 Orangeburg (SC) civil disobedience case that involved over 300 college students who were jailed.
House Republicans Rubberstamp Presidential Veto
November 15, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding House Republican’s effort to sustain the President’s veto and stop passage of the Labor-HHS-Education bill. “Today House Republicans acted as enablers to the President. They helped block funding the President called ‘excessive’—investments in the Pell Grant program our public health infrastructure, medical research, home heating assistance, and job training programs. Yet earlier this week, the President, and his House Republican Enablers said $50 billion in deficit spending was not enough to continue the status quo in Iraq.
House Addresses Mortgage Crisis
November 15, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC— House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 3915, the Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act of 2007. “This legislation instructs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to issue regulations that prohibit mortgage lenders from encouraging homebuyers to accept loans that are not in their best interests. Furthermore, this reform package requires creditors to determine, based on verified and documented information, whether a consumer has a reasonable ability to repay a mortgage loan, according to its terms, and all applicable taxes, insurance, and assessments.
House Approves Foreign Surveillance Bill
November 15, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the RESTORE Act, critical national security legislation that gives the intelligence community the tools it needs to protect our country while upholding constitutional protections for all Americans. The RESTORE Act updates the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) and provides additional assistance to those federal agencies charged with tracking down terrorists, weapons proliferators, and spies.
House Approves Transportation and Housing Spending Bill
November 14, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip and former Member of the House Transportation Committee, James E. Clyburn, today released the following statement regarding the passage of the 2008 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Conference Report. “With the recent collapse of the I-35 bridge in Minnesota and the dramatic downturn in our housing market, it is abundantly obvious that our nation’s travel and housing sectors are in need of assistance. This bill provides such assistance by seeking to stabilize these sectors and safeguard the individuals that they serve.”
House Approves Resolution to Redeploy Troops from Iraq
November 14, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC— “In 2003, the President proclaimed ‘Mission Accomplished’ in Iraq, but four years later our troops are still perishing at alarming rates and sectarian violence continues to forestall progress. It is clear that a change is warranted and the Orderly and Responsible Iraq Redeployment Appropriations Act makes much needed alterations to this President’s deficient war policy.”
Honoring our Nation's Veterans
November 9, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—The House and Senate have sent President Bush a new VA funding package that helps rectify the poor treatment veterans have endured in recent years. Our legislation provides $37.2 billion for VA hospitals and clinics. Some of that funding will pay for researching conditions such as Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder that are common among veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition, the bill appropriates $124.2 million to provide 1,800 new claims processors to address the backlog of benefit claims.
Clyburn Defends Military Families
November 8, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—After attacks on an educational and recreational program for the children of military families, Majority Whip Clyburn today spoke out on the House floor to defend military families who are fighting to protect our way of life. House Republicans criticized $3 million in the Department of Defense Appropriations bill for the First Tee Life Skills program, a character-building program which benefits low-income and minority children. The funding would implement the First Tee Life Skills program at military facilities, giving the children of military families a constructive educational and recreational outlet.
Increasing Number of Americans Oppose Iraq War
November 8, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“This poll speaks clearly—the American people are fed-up with President Bush’s unproductive war policies and want a New Direction. Almost five years, nearly 4,000 American causalities, and billions of dollars of debt is too high a price to pay for this unending war. It is time that this Administration execute a plan for redeployment.”
House Approves Homeowners Protection Bill
November 8, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Today, the New Direction Congress passed legislation that will help homeowners better recoup property damages suffered from catastrophic natural disasters such as the recent California wildfires. “This legislation authorizes the Secretary of Treasury to implement a national homeowners' insurance stabilization program that grants liquidity loans to state and regional reinsurance programs for the purpose of making home insurance more affordable. These loans will also help to make homeowners’ insurance more available and solvent.
Clyburn Champions Passage of Defense Appropriations Conference Report
November 8, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Today, the House of Representatives passed a funding initiative that appropriately funds and strongly supports our brave men and women gallantly serving in the United States Armed Services. The 2008 Department of Defense Appropriations bill not only provides our military personnel with the equipment that they will need to conduct their combat missions, but it also appropriates funds for programs that provide support services to those families stationed on U.S. military installations all around the world.
Honoring Promises to the Gulf Coast Region
November 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The New Direction Congress has a proven record of addressing the needs of our brothers and sisters in the Gulf Coast. We passed a $6.4 billion Gulf Coast recovery package that was signed into law in May, which also waived the local matching requirements under the Stafford Act saving the region almost $2 billion. We recognize that Hurricanes Katrina and Rita were devastating storms that could have been a natural catastrophe in anyone’s back yard. These are continued steps toward fulfilling the partnership we established with the Gulf Coast region in August.”
House Overrides Presidential Veto of Water Resources Development Act
November 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Large bipartisan majorities in the House spoke out clearly today by overriding President Bush’s ill-conceived veto of the Water Resources Development Act. The House voted to protect and safeguard the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans living in our nation’s coastal communities. Congress is responding where the President will not, to meet the needs of those individuals displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Resolution Honoring Victims of Beach House Fire Passes House
November 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—““I proudly represent the University of South Carolina and I rise to thank the House Oversight Committee for its prompt action on this Resolution and to once again extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those USC students and Clemson students who we lost in this unfortunate event. They should know that we will continue to keep them and their loved ones in our prayers as they mourn their tremendous loss.
Clyburn Responds to President Bush's Heritage Foundation Speech
November 2, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“America’s troops serve our country with honor and distinction. The President disgraces their service by not adequately rewarding them for their heroic acts and brave deeds. I urge this Administration to change course and join Congressional Democrats in supporting measures that properly acknowledge and compensate our veterans for the many sacrifices they make defending our freedoms.”
Clyburn Responds to President Bush's Defense of Waterboarding
November 2, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement in response to President Bush’s defense of Attorney General Nominee Michael Mukasey’s refusal to classify waterboarding as illegal. Waterboarding is a form of torture which consists of immobilizing an individual on his or her back with the head inclined downward, and pouring water over the face to force the inhalation of water and induce the sensation of drowning.
Clyburn Remarks : One Year of A New Direction Congress
November 1, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—At an event on Thursday, November 1, marking the one-year anniversary of the New Direction Congress, Majority Whip Clyburn highlighted the work the 110th Congress has done to help the Gulf Coast Recover. He invited Dr. Norman C. Francis, President of Xavier University and Chairman of the Louisiana Recovery Authority to talk about this issue.
Clyburn Statement on Schaffer Nomination to Department of Agriculture
November 1, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“I implore the President and his new Secretary of Agriculture nominee, Edward Schafer, to seize the moment and use this confirmation process as a catalyst to working with Congress to pass an effective and sustainable Farm Bill. For months, we have been stymied in our efforts to provide much needed federal aid to our nation’s struggling farmers. Farmers are the centerpiece of some of our society’s most important advancements and deserve to be helped in their time of need.
Clyburn Introduces Resolution to Honor the Victims of the North Carolina Beach House Fire October 31, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC —House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today introduced a resolution expressing the sympathy of the House of Representatives and the people of the United States for the victims of the tragic fire that occurred in Ocean Isle Beach, NC this weekend. Clyburn represents the University of South Carolina, where six of the victims attended college. The legislation was introduced with 58 cosponsors including the North Carolina and South Carolina congressional delegations.
Clyburn on Peake Nomination to Veteran's Administration
October 30, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC –“Hopefully the nomination of James Peake will serve as a catalyst to reverse the years of neglect that our veterans returning from combat have had to endure under this Administration. From the Walter Reed fiasco to the recent Red Bull scandal, this Administration has consistently shown through its actions that it is no friend to our nation’s military families.
Clyburn Response to President Bush's 'Do Nothing Congress' Charge
October 30, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC –“I am continually surprised by the audacity of this President to accuse Congress of not getting its work done. Since regaining our majorities in the House and Senate, Democrats have pushed our country in a New Direction leading to landmark bipartisan legislation that makes investments in college aid programs, our national security infrastructure and a living wage for working Americans, to name a few.
Clyburn Floor Remarks on the North Carolina Beach House Fire Victims
October 30, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC –“Madam Speaker, when young men and women go off to pursue an education, their families hope for them a bright future and a long life. All seven of these young men and women lost their lives in a fire this weekend and I join with those that I represent at the University of South Carolina in offering condolences to these families. And I also say to the families of Clemson University, our heart goes out to all of them.
Clyburn on North Carolina Beach House Fire
October 29, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC –“We are all saddened by the tragedy this weekend in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Loss of life is always difficult, but to lose our young people who have a large part of their lives ahead of them is truly difficult. My thoughts and prayers go to the friends and families of those who lost their loved-ones, to the students who survived the devastating fire, and to the student body at USC and Clemson, who are helping one another cope at this difficult time.”
House Approves Revised Children's Health Bill
October 25, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC –“As promised, the Congress is preparing to send legislation back to the President to provide health insurance coverage for 10 million American children. A bipartisan coalition worked diligently to address concerns raised by many Republicans around the issues of providing coverage for illegal immigrants, adults and higher income families. The legislation was carefully clarified to address those concerns. Unfortunately, House Republicans could not take ‘yes’ for an answer.
Clyburn Statement on CBO's War Projection Costs
October 25, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement in response to a Congressional Budget Office (CBO) report which estimates that the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars could cost American taxpayers $2.4 trillion through the next decade
Clyburn Statement on Revised SCHIP Legislation
October 24, 2007
Washington, D.C. -“Leslie Southwick’s judicial record clearly indicates that he is openly hostile to the rights of minorities, women, and workers. His contemptuous support for court rulings that degrade African-Americans and shun the rights of women is shameful and injudicious.
Clyburn Opposes Southwick Nomination to U.S. Circuit Court
October 24, 2007
Washington, D.C. -“Leslie Southwick’s judicial record clearly indicates that he is openly hostile to the rights of minorities, women, and workers. His contemptuous support for court rulings that degrade African-Americans and shun the rights of women is shameful and injudicious.
Clyburn Demands Accountability on Iraq Supplemental Request
October 22, 2007
Washington, D.C. - “Only a few days after working to defeat a fiscally responsible bill that would have provided vital health coverage to 10 million needy children, the President has asked Congress to appropriate nearly $200 billion to continue funding his failing war policies. Rather than working with Congress to pass a children’s health care bill that pays for itself, the President prefers to recklessly add billions of dollars to our nation’s soaring debt for a war with no end.
Clyburn Floor Remarks on SCHIP Veto Override
October 18, 2007
Washington, D.C. - "Now I have heard the specious claims that SCHIP is a form of “socialized medicine.” The President did not call it socialized medicine when he promised the American people he would seek to expand it when he was accepting his Party's nomination for a second term. Then again, how can it be socialized medicine when it covers 10 million children and not be socialized medicine for 6 million.
Clyburn : We Will Not Stop Until We Cover 10 Million Children
October 18, 2007
Washington, D.C. - ““Through their obstructionist tactics and misleading rhetoric, the President and House Republicans derailed a broad bipartisan effort to ensure that 10 million needy children receive the quality health care services they deserve. Their efforts have potentially jeopardized the health and wellbeing of millions of American children.
Clyburn on Hiding Iraqi Government Corruption from the American People
October 16, 2007
Washington, D.C. - “Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation condemning the Bush administration for withholding information from the American people on the systemic outbreak of corruption that has besieged the Iraqi government. Instead of holding corrupt Iraqi government officials accountable for their malfeasance and immoral actions, this Administration has chosen to conceal their deplorable deeds, leading to the further waste of US and Iraqi resources.
Clyburn Responds to President's Mischaracterization of Children's Healthcare Bill
October 15, 2007
Washington, D.C. - “This consensus bill puts poor kids first, just as the President claims it should. Although it specifically targets the lowest-income uninsured children for outreach and enrollment in the program it is intended to grant relief to middle-income families who earn too much for Medicaid coverage but not enough to afford private insurance. No state currently covers children in families earning $83,000 and the bipartisan bill does not call for coverage of children in families at higher income levels.
Clyburn on Former Lt. General Ricardo Sanchez's Iraq War Remarks
October 15, 2007
Washington, D.C. - “Retired Lt. General Ricardo Sanchez recently characterized President Bush’s current surge strategy as a desperate move that will not achieve long-term stability. From the beginning, the President has repeatedly maintained that he follows the advice given to him by our military commanders on the ground in Iraq. I hope he will heed the sound advice from General Sanchez.
Clyburn Floor Statement on Red Bull National Guard Infantry Division
October 4, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“Recently, members of the Minnesota National Guard, known as the Red Bulls, were told that they did not qualify to receive benefits under the GI Bill. Why? Because they were deployed for 729 days in Iraq and not the 730 days mandated by the GI Bill to receive benefits.
The fact that we would deny educational benefits to courageous veterans, who risked their lives defending our freedoms, many who were deployed for 20 consecutive months, is shameful and appalling.
House Bill Holds Government Contractors Accountable
October 4, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“It is critical to the success of our work overseas to implement ethical codes of conduct that clearly establish that no one working for or contracting with the American government is above the law. This bill mandates that the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) investigate and prosecute government contractors who commit offenses while assigned overseas.
Clyburn on President's Veto of Children's Healthcare Bill
October 3, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“Today, the President has forsaken one of America’s most vulnerable and deserving populations, our nation’s uninsured children. In vetoing the bipartisan Children’s Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, the Bush Administration is denying 10 million needy children vital health care services and insurance coverage. Watch floor speech
House Approves Troop Redeployment Oversight Bill
October 2, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“H.R. 3087, the Contingency Planning for Redeployment from Iraq bill, goes a long way toward ensuring that our troops’ redeployment from Iraq is handled in a manner that respects and honors the countless sacrifices made by our brave men and women serving in harm’s way. This legislation requires the Department of Defense to submit periodic reports to Congress on the status and progress of all redeployment efforts from Iraq. Furthermore, this bill requires that the Secretary of Defense and Joint Chiefs of Staff do a better job of keeping the Congress abreast of redeployment issues through continual briefings and increased dialogue.
House Approves Flood Insurance Reform Bill
September 27, 2007
Washington, D.C. – House Majority Whip and Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Taskforce on Hurricane Katrina, James E. Clyburn, released the following statement today regarding passage of HR 3121, the Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act.
Bush Joins Congress by Signing Largest Investment in College Aid Since GI Bill
September 27, 2007
Washington, D.C. –"The bill signed into law today increases the maximum Pell Grant scholarship by $1,090 over the next five years, so that the maximum value of the grant will reach $5,400 by 2012. In addition, the bill cuts in half interest rates on need-based federal student loans from 6.8 percent to 3.4 percent over four years. The bill also provides $170 million in grants for HBCUs over the next five years. Finally, it creates a new designation of Predominantly Black Institutions—defined as schools that enroll students in financial need and have at least 40 percent African-American student enrollment. These schools will be eligible to receive $30 million in grant aid over five years for programs in the fields of science, technology, engineering, health education, teacher education, and programs geared towards improving the educational outcomes of African-American males.”
House Approves Bill that Provides Health Care Coverage for 10 Million Children
September 25, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“Currently 6.6 million children are covered under CHIP. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that an additional 3.8 million children would be covered under the legislation, 2.4 million of those would be minority children. About 1.4 million would be Hispanic children, about 800,000 would be African American children and about 130,000 would be Asian American children.
Clyburn Calls for "Equal Justice Under Law" in Jena 6 Case
September 20, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“The case of the Jena Six illustrates that race still matters. Racial tensions did not abate with desegregation. Inequitable treatment did not evaporate with the end of legalized institutional discrimination. Our systems of government cannot legislate tolerance and acceptance.
Clyburn Responds to President Bush on Children's Healthcare
September 20, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“I was disappointed to hear the President restate his threat to veto the children’s health care reauthorization act, considering his campaign promise was to increase the enrollment of children under the program. It’s time he join the 43 Republican and Democratic Governors, the 270 national organizations and the hundreds of lawmakers in Congress to reauthorize and strengthen SCHIP to provide health care coverage for 10 million American children.”
House Democrats Release Progress Report for Young Americans
September 19, 2007
Washington, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today joined House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Education and Labor Committee Chairman George Miller, and Congressman Kendrick Meek to unveil a Progress Report for Young Americans. The lawmakers made the announcement at Howard University where they had a discussion with students about issues that impact their access to an affordable education. The report outlines the legislative accomplishments that the Democratic-led Congress has made on behalf of America’s youth in the 110th Congress.
Clyburn on the Terrorism Risk Insurance Revision and Extension Act
September 19, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“The Terrorism Risk Insurance Revision and Extension Act (TRIREA) will work towards assisting those businesses left fiscally vulnerable and uninsured as a result of the 9/11 attacks. By instituting a joint public sector – private industry insurance compensating formula, this legislation makes significant strides in helping those companies who are unable to purchase insurance protecting against property losses that might occur from future terrorist attacks.
House Expands Opportunities for Home Ownership
September 18, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“With millions of Americans in danger of losing their homes and our nation’s housing market plummeting at an astounding rate, House Democrats responded today to this urgent crisis by passing legislation that will provide much needed assistance to homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments.
Clyburn on Administration's Benchmark Assessment Report on Iraq
September 14, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“Between the President’s speech last night and today’s report on Iraq, it is clear that the President is determined to establish a decades-long presence in Iraq. Despite the clear evidence that the Iraqi government has failed to make the necessary political progress and deliver on 15 of 18 benchmarks outlined by the Bush Administration, the President wants to establish a permanent presence or ‘enduring relationship’ in Iraq, continuing to sacrifice an unacceptable level of American blood and treasure.
Clyburn Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
September 14, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“Hispanic Heritage Month is an excellent opportunity to celebrate the magnificent contributions that Hispanic Americans have made in advancing our society and enriching our nation’s cultural diversity. For centuries, Hispanic Americans have served as a vital thread in the rich and colorful tapestry that makes America great.
Clyburn on National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week
September 13, 2007
Washington, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn, former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and graduate of South Carolina State University, released the following statement today in recognition of National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week.
Clyburn : Time to Match Our Deeds With Our Words
September 13, 2007
“I was appalled to hear Minority Leader Boehner's statement yesterday that the loss of American blood is a ‘small price’ to pay in Iraq. The loss of American blood is never a small price. This war has stretched our military thin, and in order to be prepared for a new or unexpected conflict we must responsibly redeploy our troops. It’s time to refocus our efforts on fighting those responsible for 9/11—al Qaeda—restoring our military to peak readiness, and to protecting Americans from terrorism.
Bush Administration Jobs Record Appalling
September 7, 2007
Washington, D.C. –“Our country’s unemployment numbers are appalling. Now is the time for President Bush and congressional Republicans to work with Democrats in a bipartisan fashion in seeking a New Direction for our economy. Democrats delivered for working families victimized by our under-performing economy by passing the first increase in the federal minimum wage in ten years and spearheading legislation that serves as the single largest investment in higher education since the GI bill.
Congress Approves Largest Investment in Higher Education Since GI Bill
September 7, 2007
Washington, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn released the following statement today on passage of HR 2669, the College Cost Reduction Act Conference Report. The Senate is also expected to pass HR 2669 today, and the legislation will then be sent to the President to be signed into law.
Clyburn on the Resignation of Attorney General Gonzales
August 27, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The resignation of Attorney General Alberto Gonzales is long overdue. His tumultuous tenure was marked by an unprecedented disregard for our nation’s civil rights laws and fundamental civil liberties that serve as essential safeguards for the American public."
House Democrats Commit to a Partnership for the Future
August 14, 2007
NEW ORLEANS, LA—Just prior to the second anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Democrats returned to the Gulf Coast to recommit themselves to a Partnership for the Future. In a congressional delegation trip to the Gulf Coast region this week, led by House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, democratic lawmakers made a new commitment.
Clyburn to Lead Congressional Delegation to Gulf Coast
August 7, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today announced that he will be leading a bipartisan congressional delegation of approximately 15 House members, including the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, to the Gulf Coast region just prior to the two-year anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The trip, which runs from August 12-14, will allow Democratic Members to return to a region they visited a year ago and assess the impact of the legislation they passed in the first stage of their new majority.
House Approves Children's Health and Medicare Protection Act
August 1, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today lauded passage of HR 3162, the Children’s Health and Medicare Protection Act of 2007 (CHAMP Act). This bill reauthorizes the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), which expires on September 30, and includes several provisions to protect and improve Medicare.
House Approves Farm Bill
July 26, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The Farm Bill imposes the first-ever limit on farm subsidy benefits for affluent corporate farms, and offers complete transparency so the public knows taxpayer dollars are getting to the family farmers who need them, specifically those who produce fruits and vegetables who have not traditionally seen Farm Bill benefits.
House Approves Responsible Redeployment From Iraq Resolution
July 12, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commented on passage of HR 2956, the Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act. The bill was approved by a vote of 223 to 201 and begins redeployment of U.S. troops from Iraq within 120 days of enactment and completes redeployment by April 1, 2008.
House Approves Largest Investment in Higher Education Since GI Bill
July 11, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Today we’ve invested in our children and the future of this country, an investment that will yield great dividends. Over the next five years the College Cost Reduction Act will increase student financial aid by $18 billion, cut student loan interest rates in half and increase the maximum Pell Grant scholarship by $900. The bill is paid for by reducing subsidies to lenders by $19 billion. It also includes nearly $1 billion in federal budget deficit reduction.
Clyburn on the Passing of Lady Bird Johnson
July 11, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Although she was a reluctant political spouse, Lady Bird Johnson left a positive mark on this nation, quite literally. Her environmental advocacy brought us the highway beautification program and preservation of native habitats and species. She brought with her a touch of southern hospitality to the U.S. Congress, to the White House and across the world as an ambassador of goodwill. And she played a pivotal role in President Johnson’s ‘Great Society’ program helping to launch the Head Start program, advance a civil rights agenda, combat poverty and improve access to education and healthcare. Her grace, tenacity and altruism will be missed.”
Senate Republicans Block Consideration of Immigration Reform Bill
June 28, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“In the first weeks of the new Congress, a bipartisan group of House and Senate leaders met at the White House to discuss a variety of issues that lay ahead of us. The Democratic leadership agreed to work with the President on his bipartisan initiative for comprehensive immigration reform. Over the last few months we have sustained that pledge, but unfortunately the President was unable to be the leader that his party needed to maintain his commitment.
Clyburn on Supreme Court Decision on School Desegregation
June 28, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commented on a decision by the United States Supreme Court in Parents Involved in Community Schools Inc. v. Seattle School District and Meredith v. Jefferson County (Ky.) Board of Education:.
“During my days as a history teacher in the Charleston County Public Schools, I always admonished my students, ‘If a thing has happened before it can happen again.’ But never in my wildest dreams did I think I would live to see the Supreme Court of the United States undercut the basic tenets of our society. What’s more disturbing is the way this Supreme Court has worked systematically with the help of at least one who benefited from all the efforts that he seems hell-bent on undermining.”
Democrats Announce Energy Independence Initiative
June 28, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The launch of this bold initiative today reminds me of a day in the Fall of 1957 on the campus of South Carolina State University when my friends and I gathered around a television to watch Russia launch Sputnik, the first man-made object to orbit the earth. The little satellite that caught America off-guard started the ‘space race’ and a huge investment by the federal government in scientific research and development and education that has led to great advances in science and technology.
President Dashes Hope of Stem Cell Research with Veto Pen
June 20, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commented on presidential veto of S. 5, the Stem Cell Enhancement Act, legislation which greatly expands the number of embryonic stem cell lines eligible to be used for federally-funded research. The legislation authorizes funding for stem cell lines only generated from embryos that would otherwise be discarded by fertility clinics.
Congress Sends President Stem Cell Research Bill
June 7, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“I applaud broad bipartisan passage in both the House and Senate of this critical legislation, part of our ‘Six for ‘06’ agenda,” said Clyburn. “Over 70 percent of Americans support stem cell research, and this legislation creates a strong ethical framework in which to conduct that research. Psalm 72 calls for us to ‘defend the afflicted among the people.’ This legislation will bring hope to millions of suffering Americans who deal daily with disease and affliction, such as diabetes, sickle cell anemia, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and cancer. Understanding the concerns of many in our communities, we have put in place safeguards to ensure that this research helps people rather than harms life. I hope the president will reconsider his veto for legislation.”
Clyburn Receives Leadership Award from American Friends of Lubavitch
June 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn last night was presented with the American Friends of Lubavitch Leadership Award at the annual Benefit Event at the Mellon Auditorium. Rabbi Levi Shemtov served as the master of ceremonies and the award was presented by last year’s recipient, Republican Whip Roy Blunt.
Clyburn on the Passing of Senator Craig Thomas
June 5, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“Although he worked on the other side of the Capitol and the other side of the aisle I have always admired the dignity with which Senator Thomas worked and the strong commitment that he had to the people of Wyoming. We are thankful for his service to this nation in both the U.S. Marines and the U.S. Congress. My thoughts and prayers are with Susan and his family.”
Clyburn on Indictment of Rep. Jefferson
June 4, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“The allegations leveled against Mr. Jefferson are serious and should not be treated lightly. But they are allegations and in our system must not be treated as guilt. We must allow the judicial process to run its course, after which there will be plenty enough time to express our political will.”
Democrats Produce Results
May 25, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement on the accomplishments of the new Democratic majority—six priorities that chart a new direction for America.
Hearings and Legislative Action on Gulf Coast Recovery
May 25, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—Democrats came into the majority committed to addressing the needs of the Gulf Coast. Following is a list of activity in the House relating to Democrats’ action on Gulf Coast recovery efforts, including $6.4 billion in recovery assistance and waiving the local match requirement under the Stafford Act, legislation expected to be signed into law by the President this weekend:
House Approves Emergency Spending Bill
May 24, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“This legislation includes provisions beyond the President’s request to address emergency needs domestically: $393 million in critical funding that I led the fight for to restore children’s healthcare in 11 states, the first raise in the minimum wage in a decade, and funding for veterans care and improving VA hospitals.
House Approves Honest Leadership Open Government Act
May 24, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—“In January, during the first few hours of a new majority Democrats ushered through the most sweeping ethics changes in Congress since Watergate, honoring our campaign promises to Americans who voted for a new direction. Today we further honor our campaign promises by passing the Honest Leadership, Open Government Act which will work to restore integrity in the process of lobbying and legislating in the United States Congress. This is the people’s house. We must conduct business with honesty and openness so we can be held accountable by the American people.”
Democrats Honoring Our Nation's Veterans
May 23, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commented on recent action in the House of Representatives to honor our veterans and provide them with the care and benefits they deserve on the eve of Memorial Day. Last week, the House passed a defense bill that give our troops a pay raise, and improves survivor benefits. A House Appropriations Subcommittee approved the Veterans Administration spending bill yesterday, and the House approved a series of bills today to strengthen veterans care and benefits. Also pending is veterans healthcare funding in the emergency war supplemental.
Democrats Deliver for Gulf Coast
May 22, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC—House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today applauded passage of bipartisan legislation, HR 1427 Federal Housing Finance Reform Act of 2007, which creates a strong independent regulator for the mortgage funding entities, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and creates a non-taxpayer financed Affordable Housing Fund. Grants generated from the fund in the first year will be dedicated to addressing affordable housing needs in areas impacted by Hurricane Katrina.
House Approves Balanced Budget with Middle Class Tax Cuts
May 17, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “Our budget brings federal finances back to balance by 2012 without raising taxes and starts paying down our debt. It imposes pay-as-you-go budget rules requiring new spending to be offset. It increases funding for veterans’ services by $6.7 billion to address the increased patient load and improve the strained Veterans Administration. It funds the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations and provides our military the resources, training and equipment they need. Where the president makes drastic cuts, we invest in Head Start, higher education programs, energy assistance, and the COPS program. It makes investments in renewable, sustainable energy alternatives to help America achieve energy independence in 10 years and create new economies in rural America. We also invest in America’s families by expanding the Children’s Health Care program and provide tax relief for the 20 million middle class families hit by the Alternative Minimum Tax, a tax increase the President has failed to fix.
Clyburn Comments on Veto Threat and Passage of Department of Defense Authorization, HR 1585
May 17, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today criticized the Bush Administration for threatening to veto HR 1585, the Department of Defense Authorization bill, over a pay raise for US troops and an increase in benefits for military survivors, among other things. The legislation passed with overwhelming support in the House of Representatives today, 397-27.
Clyburn Chides Republicans for Holding Up Funding for Troops
May 16, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "The Republican do-nothing Congress is rearing its ugly head once again. Now that they’re in the minority Republicans are preventing critical legislation from being debated by calling for a constant series of procedural votes. Republicans are playing games with troop funding by holding up legislation which includes provisions to improve troop readiness, strengthen the National Guard, provide much-needed equipment and training, upgrade military health care and give the military a pay raise."
Clyburn Delivers Commencement Address to Southern University, Baton Rouge, LA
May 11, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today delivered the commencement address to the historically black college, Southern University, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Clyburn, who has spearheaded efforts in the House of Representatives to speed up recovery assistance to the Gulf Coast, addressed the disparity in federal response to the region.
House Approves Revised Iraq Emergency Spending Bill
May 10, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commented on passage of a revised emergency Iraq spending bill, HR 2206, which also includes funding for veterans care and hurricane recovery.
Celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month
May 3, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "Since arriving in the United States in the 17th Century, America’s Jews have played a vital role in our society, contributing to the nation’s rich culture in many ways. The community has served as a voice of conscience in this country, speaking out against injustice here and abroad and partnering with other leaders in the human and civil rights movements to bring equal rights to all people."
Clyburn on Passage of Hate Crimes Prevention Act
May 3, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - " Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminds us in his Letter fromBirmingham Jail that, ‘time is always ripe to do right.’ What do we stand for when we rise to take our congressional oath in this august body, if not to protect the rights and freedoms granted under the Constitution? Hate and violence have no place in American society. Today we recognize that the time is right to join together to provide equal protection under the law against violent crime for all people, no matter their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.”
Clyburn Statement on National Prayer Day
May 3, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "Today’s National Day of Prayer provides our nation and its diverse communities the opportunity to stand still, to reflect, and to be mindful of our spiritual obligations as persons of faith. It matters not whether we are Democrat or Republican, black or white, yellow or brown, Jew or Christian, or Sunni or Shiite. Despite our differences, we are all ‘caught in an inescapable network of mutuality."
Clyburn on Today's Meeting at The White House
May 2, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "Today’s meeting was positive. I’m pleased the president finally indicated that he is willing to work with the Congress on compromise legislation regarding funding for the war in Iraq. We must move past political posturing and craft a bill that can become law. The American people want results, and that’s what we intend to deliver."
Clyburn on Veto of Iraq Accountability Act
May 1, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "Tonight the president vetoed legislation that would end an open-ended commitment for this war, holds the Iraqi government accountable and provide the administration with the exit strategy it lacks. Furthermore, the Iraq Accountability Act provides funding for our troops beyond the president’s request, honors the promises to our veterans and creates a new direction in Iraq."
Clyburn Statement on Earth Day
April 20, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “We can no longer dismiss the overwhelming evidence brought forth by scientists, environmentalists, community leaders, and the faith community regarding climate change. In order to maintain a livable earth for our children and our grandchildren, we must take strong steps to reduce harmful emissions, cease our dependence on foreign oil, and create alternative sources of renewable energy.
House Democratic Leaders Call President's Attention to Crucial Factors In Iraq War Debate
April 20, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Majority Whip James Clyburn, Caucus Chairman Rahm Emanuel, Caucus Vice Chairman John Larson, and Assistant to the Speaker Xavier Becerra sent a letter to President Bush today to call his attention to crucial facts regarding the funding of the troops in Iraq and the debate on a timetable for withdrawal.
Clyburn Comments on Tragic Shooting at Virginia Tech
April 16, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “I am heartbroken by the tragic shooting that occurred today at Virginia Tech. Thousands of students—from South Carolina, around the nation and overseas—flock to Blacksburg for education and enlightenment and call Virginia Tech home. For a sanctuary of learning to become the scene of the most catastrophic shooting event in our nation’s history, truly makes this a solemn day. Their tragedy is our nation’s tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the students, faculty, staff and their families as they cope with and recover from these events.”
Clyburn on Army Tour of Duty Extension
April 11, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today responded to the announcement by Defense Secretary Robert Gates that the Pentagon is extending by three months, the one-year deployment for all active duty Army soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Clyburn Responds to President's Agreement to Meet
April 10, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “I’m pleased the President has agreed to meet with us to discuss the emergency supplemental spending bill. As he said in his State of the Union address, ‘Our citizens don't much care which side of the aisle we sit on -- as long as we're willing to cross that aisle when there is work to be done.’
Clyburn Honors Eddie Robinson
April 4, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “Eddie Robinson started his career at the Louisiana Negro Normal and Industrial Institute, what would become Grambling State, with no paid assistant coaches, no grounds keeping staff, no trainers and meager equipment. He was the head coach, the assistant coach, the linesman and even the chef, making sandwiches for his players who were banned from the “white only” restaurants in the South. Daunting challenges for any average football coach trying to create a successful football program. But Eddie Robinson was anything but average.
Clyburn : Americans Want Compromise, Not Cowboy Showdown
April 3, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “The American people clearly want a change in course in Iraq and they want to see their government leaders working together to make that change. Democrats have asked the President to come to the table and work through an emergency spending bill that establishes benchmarks for progress in Iraq, holds the Iraqi government accountable and provides funding for our troops in harms way. But it seems the President would prefer a showdown. We remain hopeful that the White House will accept our invitation, and work toward a solution. Americans want compromise not a cowboy-style showdown.”
Clyburn Congratulates Tuskegee Airmen On Congressional Gold Medal Of Honor
March 29, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “It brings me great joy to see the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor presented to the Tuskegee Airmen. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor the Congress can give to civilians and I can think of no better recipients than those who broke the racial barriers in the Armed Forces. The 996 original Airmen and the 10,000 men and women who made up the vital support staff, altered history in a very positive way. They opened doors to professional careers for African-Americans in every walk of life.
Clyburn On Passage Of Emergency Supplemental
March 23, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “This vote put us on the glidepath to ending the war in Iraq. Passage of the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans’ Health and Iraq Accountability Act of 2007 lets the American people know that Democrats are serious about moving in a new direction; serious about changing course in Iraq; serious about responding to the victims of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma; serious about honoring and protecting the men and women fighting in harms way; serious about providing for our veterans who are suffering from broken promises of this administration and previous Congresses; and we’re serious about America becoming America again.”
Clyburn On Starting The Fifth Year Of The Iraq War
March 19, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “I see this solemn anniversary as the beginning of the end. After more than 3,200 U.S. troops have died, more than 20,000 U.S. troops have been wounded, and more than $400 billion of taxpayer dollars have been appropriated, this is the first time a Congress is changing the course in Iraq. The Democratic majority is reinstating oversight and accountability of the administration, ending the blank check for the president’s war, and setting a timeline for the phased redeployment of our U.S. military. By August 2008 at the latest, U.S. combat troops will be redeployed from Iraq.
Democrats Deliver
Emergency War Time Spending Bill Includes Gulf Coast Recovery Assistance
March 13, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today commended the leadership of Appropriations Chairman David Obey and the members of the Gulf Coast Region for their tireless work on to include assistance for the areas impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in the war time emergency supplemental funding bill.
Democrats Make Progress on Iraq Emergency Spending Request
March 8, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “Today we offer our next step, a carefully crafted emergency war time spending bill that, for the first time, puts benchmarks and timelines in place to require Iraqis to take control of Iraq, and establishes a process to begin our withdrawal from Iraq. It also provides funding to fight the resurgence of al Qaeda in Afghanistan. The key to this legislation, however, are the measures that provide equipment and resources for our military on the ground, and funding for the Veterans Administration to care for our soldiers who served so honorably.”
Majority Whip Clyburn on LBJ
March 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “Madame Speaker, as a former history teacher, who started his educational pursuits as a four-year-old in his mother’s kindergarten, I proudly rise in support of HR 584, legislation to designate the headquarters building of the Department of Education, here in Washington DC, as the Lyndon Baines Johnson Federal Building.
Clyburn Joins 8th Annual Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Alabama
March 2, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn will join this weekend’s 8th Annual Civil Rights Pilgrimage to Selma, Montgomery, and Birmingham, Alabama, organized by Georgia Rep. John Lewis and sponsored by the Faith and Politics institute. Lewis serves as Clyburn’s second-in-command, as Senior Chief Deputy Whip. The senior Democratic lawmakers began their friendship over 40 years ago during the organizational meetings for the Civil Rights Group, Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee.
Democrats Challenge Bush to Take Action During His Visit to the Gulf Coast
March 1, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn and his Democratic colleagues today challenged President Bush to take real action during his tour of the Gulf Coast, and agree to sign legislation moving quickly through the House to waive the local matching fund requirements under federal aid regulation. Clyburn held a press conference following the most-recent in a series of meetings with members of the Gulf Coast, Democratic Leadership and Committee Chairmen to address disaster response needs in the region.
Democrats Deliver on Gulf Coast Recovery
March 1, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - Democrats came into the majority only two months ago, compared to the 18 months the Republican Majority and the White House have been in a position to address the needs of the Gulf Coast. Following is a list of activity in the House relating to Democrats’ action Gulf Coast recovery efforts...
Democrats Prepare Briefing for President on His Trip to Gulf Coast
February 28, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "Hurricane Katrina struck U.S. soil on August 29, 2005, and the world watched over several days as the federal government failed to adequately respond to the needs of fellow Americans. It has been nearly 18 months since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated the Gulf Coast and the region still struggles."
Clyburn Convenes Committee Chairmen On Katrina
February 16, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - At the request of Speaker Pelosi, House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today convened the first in a series of meetings of Democratic leadership, committee chairmen, Gulf Coast members and Tri-Caucus chairmen to discuss the needs and legislative priorities related to the relief and recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast as a result of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Clyburn Floor Statement on Iraq Resolution
February 15, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn this morning, led-off today’s debate on H.Con.Res. 60, a House resolution opposing President Bush’s plans to send more than 20,000 additional troops into Iraq. Clyburn spoke on the third day debate in which every Member of Congress is allotted five minutes to speak on the issue. Lawmakers are scheduled to vote on the resolution tomorrow.
Clyburn on Charlie Norwood
February 13, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “Even though Congressman Norwood was from Georgia, more often than not, he flew out of Columbia South Carolina, to the Nation’s Capital when we were in session. I got to know him quite well on those flights back to Washington D.C.. We often talked about politics, our differing views, and smiled about how we canceled each other out. We shared a love of country and respect for one another. He was a great Congressman who served his constituents well. Those who got to know him as I did, came to love and respect him as a treasured colleague and great American. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
House Democratic Leaders Regarding Iraq Resolution to Be Debated This Week
February 12, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Leaders released the following statements today regarding a concurrent resolution that will be debated on the Floor this week. The resolution expresses support for American troops and disapproval of the President's plan to increase the number of troops in Iraq.
Clyburn On President's Budget
February 6, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “What we see in this budget is more of the same from the Deficit President. He uses accounting gimmicks like unrealistic war spending and a short-term fix to the AMT, and he spends the Social Security and Medicare trust funds to balance the budget. An honest look shows his budget adds $3.2 trillion to the deficit over the next 10 years. But that’s not the only deficit he’s creating.
Clyburn Kicks Off Black History Month With Democratic Radio Address
February 3, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “In the first 100 hours of the legislative session, we ushered through broad reform measures and a widely bipartisan legislative package that honored the promises we made during the campaign season. It was not a Black agenda or Hispanic agenda. It was not an Asian agenda or a middle-class agenda. Yet it was all those agendas because it was an American agenda.
Clyburn Congratulates Lorraine C. Miller On Her Appointment to Clerk of the House
January 31, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “As the first African-American Clerk of House, and only the third woman Clerk in over 200 years, this appointment is nothing short of historic. I am proud to see an unprecedented level of diversity at the highest ranks of power in the 110th Congress, and Ms. Miller’s appointment is another step in the right direction. It is fitting, on the eve of Black History Month, to honor a woman who is not only helping break the marble ceiling but is also breaking racial barriers.
House Completes 100 Hour Agenda
January 18, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “We showed the political will to advance an agenda, not for the special interests, but for the American people: greater access to affordable education, safer and more secure communities, a fairer wage for an honest day’s work, a pathway to energy independence, and lower prescription drug costs.
Clyburn On the Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.
January 15, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - "As I consider the challenges we face nationally and internationally, I am struck by Dr. King's words, 'More and more I feel that the people of ill will have used time much more effectively than have the people of good will. We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people.'
Clyburn Announces Whip Staff
January 10, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “I worked hard in the short period of time between the election and the start of the new Congress to form a strong and well-seasoned team that will help me and the Democratic leadership advance an agenda that meets the needs of the American people,” said Clyburn. “I am proud of the diversity and talent of my staff. I plan to draw upon the broad knowledge and experience of this group as we work to restore the trust of the American people in the Congress, improve access to higher education, make health care more affordable, strengthen security for Americans at home and abroad, and increase investment in renewable, home-grown biofuel.”
Clyburn Sworn-in to 110th Congress
January 4, 2007
WASHINGTON, DC - “What we see in this budget is more of the same from the Deficit President. He uses accounting gimmicks like unrealistic war spending and a short-term fix to the AMT, and he spends the Social Security and Medicare trust funds to balance the budget. An honest look shows his budget adds $3.2 trillion to the deficit over the next 10 years. But that’s not the only deficit he’s creating.
Clyburn Statement on President Ford
December 27, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-elect James E. Clyburn today released the following statement on the passing of the 38th President of the United States, Gerald Ford: “President Ford was most poignant in his declaration to Congress when he took the highest office, ‘I am a Ford, not a Lincoln.’ It was with that humble, practical and resourceful approach that he led this country through a turbulent time. As we approach a new year and a new majority, our leaders would serve this nation well to learn from President Ford’s conciliatory style and steady vision.
Clyburn on the Life of Entertainer James Brown
December 27, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-Elect James E. Clyburn today released the following statement on the passing of entertainer James Brown: “I am saddened by the news of James Brown's passing. His enumerated contributions to music and to this country will not soon be forgotten. “I am saddened by the news of James Brown's passing. His enumerated contributions to music and to this country will not soon be forgotten.
Congressional Leadership Meets with President Bush at White House
December 8, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-elect, Congressman James E. Clyburn today joined Leaders from the House and Senate at a White House meeting with President Bush. Discussion at the meeting included Iraq and the President's recent travels abroad.
Clyburn Responds to Ethics Committee Report on Foley Case
December 8, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-elect James E. Clyburn today responded to the report released by the House Ethics Committee on the improper conduct of former Congressman Mark Foley.
Clyburn Announces Whip Team
December 6, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-elect, Congressman James E. Clyburn today announced his whip team for the 110th Congress which will include two new members, Reps. G.K. Butterfield (NC-01) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-20).
Clyburn on Report from Iraq Study Group
December 6, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-elect, Congressman James E. Clyburn today made the following remarks about the Iraq Study Group report released today: “There is no question that the way forward in Iraq will be one of our greatest challenges in the new majority, but we plan to give it the attention, open debate and sober reasoning it deserves. The sacrifices, dedication and patriotism of our elite military and their families deserve no less.
Clyburn on World Aids Day
November 30, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - House Majority Whip-elect, Congressman James E. Clyburn today made the following remarks about World AIDS Day, which will be commemorated tomorrow, Friday, December 1: “The test of our progress as a great nation is how we reach out to, lift up and support those who are suffering. On this eve of World AIDS Day it is time we take up this calling and act. The Book of James clearly tells us that ‘faith without works is dead.’
Clyburn Elected House Majority Whip
November 16, 2006
WASHINGTON, DC - The House Democratic Caucus today elected a new majority leadership team for 110th Congress. Outgoing House Democratic Caucus Chairman James E. Clyburn today made the following remarks after his colleagues elected him Majority Whip, third-ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives.
| 
