The First Eight

James E. Clyburn currently serves as the Assistant Democratic Leader in the U.S. House of Representatives. A 30-year Congressional veteran, he has been a kingmaker in presidential elections, an influential and effective legislative leader, and an unwavering voice for civil rights. Born in Sumter, South Carolina, during the Jim Crow era, he has been awarded the NAACP's highest honor – the Spingarn Medal, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Foundation's Liberty and Justice for All Award, the Harry S. Truman Foundation's Good Neighbor Award, and holds honorary degrees from nearly 40 colleges and universities. In 2024, he was bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. "One of a handful of people who, when they speak, the entire Congress listens."-President Barack Obama "My friend and brother, Congressman James E. Clyburn, has been in my corner since day one-and I am so grateful for his support."-President Joe Biden