Rep. Jim Clyburn advises Democrats to prioritize affordability over impeaching Trump

Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., stated on August 30, 2026, that Democrats should not prioritize impeaching President Donald Trump if they regain control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections. Clyburn emphasized the need to focus on making life more affordable for Americans during an appearance on NBC News’ 'Meet the Press.' He expressed confidence that the first order of business for Democrats would be to ensure accessibility and affordability in housing, education, energy, and healthcare. When asked if impeachment should be ruled out, Clyburn remarked, 'I don’t rule it out, but I don’t rule it in,' adding that impeachment would not address the pressing issues facing citizens. His comments followed similar remarks from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., who stated that no decisions regarding impeachment had been made yet, emphasizing a principled approach based on facts and the Constitution. Clyburn also reflected on his past support for Justice Clarence Thomas, admitting he was wrong to endorse Thomas during his confirmation in 1991. He stated, 'I have made mistakes in my life, and that’s one that I made, and I will own up to that mistake.' Regarding a proposal by former Vice President Kamala Harris to expand the Supreme Court from nine justices to thirteen, Clyburn expressed his support, stating, 'I think that we are in a position now that calls for some significant actions taken by the Congress, and we ought to expand it.'