WASHINGTON, DC – House Assistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn (D-SC) today is sending a letter to Democratic colleagues announcing his intention to run for Assistant Democratic Leader in the 115th Congress. Below is the text of the letter.
Dear Democratic Colleague:
I write to respectfully ask for your vote and support to continue serving as Assistant Democratic Leader in the 115th Congress of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Over the past several days, we have engaged in a great deal of introspection. The conversations and discussions I have had with many of you have been instructive and constructive. We must continue those discussions and we need to do so on a much more frequent and inclusive basis.
We must start by advancing a bold vision for a 21st century economy that is worthy of America’s working men and women. And we must develop ways to express that vision in words and phrases that are understandable and complimentary. It is overused but true, our diversity is our greatest strength. We must find ways to more effectively help each other and the means to more efficiently recruit others to join us. We must champion the causes of those whose votes we seek and stand up to the most extreme elements of the Republican agenda. We must stand for opportunity, equality and justice for all in our society.
A former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Chair, Vice Chair, and Majority Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, I am the only Member of our Leadership from a red state and mostly rural district. I work to stay connected to all of our Caucuses and regions and give voice to the concerns of our diverse communities.
I had the experience in 1970 of having been declared the winner in my campaign for the South Carolina legislature on Tuesday evening, and being told the next morning that in adding up the votes someone had failed to carry a one. Therefore, rather than winning by 500 votes I lost by 500 votes. I did not quit then, and I will not quit now. I am committed to redoubling my efforts to move the country and our Caucus forward.
I want to be a strong voice for our values, constituents and Members, and with your support, I will. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
James E. Clyburn