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Close to his roots

Clyburn becomes majority whip today

Congressman giving up budget post for new job

Thursday, January 04, 2007

T&D Staff Report

In preparation for his ascension to the third-highest position in the U.S. House, 6th District Congressman James Clyburn has taken a leave of absence from the House Appropriations Committee.

By leaving the committee tasked with writing the nation's budget, Clyburn says he isn't giving up his influence in deciding how much money goes where. But he and other Democratic leaders felt it was right to give up their slots so others could get the prized committee assignment, he said.

"You can't ask people to make sacrifices for the whole if you don't make sacrifices yourself," Clyburn said Wednesday.

Clyburn will be sworn in as House majority whip this afternoon, becoming the first South Carolinian and the second black person to hold the post. He was elected to the position in November, after Democrats gained a majority in the House.

As whip, he will be responsible for organizing his fellow Democrats and encouraging them to vote according to the party's position.

Clyburn said it would be "selfish" for the leadership to hold onto their seats on the Appropriations Committee. He also took a leave of absence in 2000 when he was chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, to assure members he'd be available in times of crisis.

Also, "When you are whip, you are really co-chair of every committee," Clyburn said.

In addition, he believes the leaders' decision to leave the committee to make way for others will give them more influence on the panel.

"They'll honor every request I put in, perhaps doubly so," he said.

Clyburn will not lose his seniority on the Appropriations Committee by taking a leave of absence, he said.

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Comments:

Rosa Bogar wrote on January 04, 2007 12:06 PM:"Congressman,James Clyburn,you are truly a hero of South Carolina and beyond. I am proud to be a native of South Carolina,Orangeburg,May you continue to serve the country with pride, respect, love and dignity! blessing be unto you."

Bryan wrote on January 04, 2007 5:31 AM:"People, you think the bridge issue was a waste of money for the sake of a few people, sit back and watch your country go to waste with this man throwing our money away in ways you can't imagine. How did he get elected from District 6 with 102+ thousands votes, when there are not that many voters registered in the district? Ask Judge Robinson and Claflin students, they know."

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