COLUMBIA, S.C. (Diya TV) — James E. Clyburn, one of the most influential Democrats in Congress, announced Thursday that he will run for an 18th term in the U.S. House of Representatives. The 85-year-old lawmaker’s decision comes as the Democratic Party faces growing calls for generational change within its leadership ranks.

Clyburn’s announcement signals that he plans to remain a central figure in national politics. The veteran congressman said he feels healthy and ready to continue serving the people of South Carolina. His decision also arrives at a time when Democrats believe they have a strong chance to regain control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections.

Clyburn shared his decision during remarks at the Democratic Party headquarters in Columbia. He said his choice reflects a lifetime commitment to public service.

“I do believe I’m very well equipped and healthy enough to move into the next term,” Clyburn said. He promised to run a “vigorous” campaign and stay active with voters.

Clyburn has represented South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District for more than three decades. During that time, he became one of the most powerful Democrats in Washington. He served for years as the No. 3 House Democrat and remains the highest-ranking Black member of Congress in the chamber’s history.

In 2022, Clyburn stepped down from his leadership role along with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and longtime Democratic leader Steny H. Hoyer. The move allowed a new generation of party leaders to rise within the caucus. Unlike his longtime colleagues, however, Clyburn did not retire from Congress.

Clyburn’s decision also connects to the future of Democratic leadership in the House. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has emerged as the party’s top figure in the chamber. If Democrats win the House majority in the next election, Jeffries could become the first Black speaker in U.S. history. Clyburn said he hopes to witness that historic moment.

He also revealed that Jeffries encouraged him to seek another term. According to Clyburn, Jeffries told him he could continue to play a role at the leadership table if Democrats regain the majority. That support helped reinforce Clyburn’s decision to stay in the race.

Clyburn’s campaign will likely fuel the ongoing debate about age and leadership in American politics. Many voters and political analysts have urged older lawmakers to step aside to make room for younger leaders. Clyburn acknowledged the discussion but said his ability to serve matters more than his age.

“This could very well be my last term — and it could very well not be,” he told reporters.

He said he feels capable of continuing his work in Congress and does not believe outside pressure should dictate his decision.

“If I were not up to it,” he said, “I would not do it.”

Clyburn said his family played a key role in his final decision. He spoke with his three daughters about the growing calls for older Democrats to retire. Their feedback helped shape his thinking. According to Clyburn, his daughters told him that voters still strongly support him. He also pointed to a recent poll showing what he described as “remarkable approval” among his constituents.

That encouragement convinced him to seek another term. In earlier comments to the media, Clyburn suggested that if he eventually leaves Congress, he would like his daughter, Jennifer Clyburn Reed, to succeed him.

Clyburn holds a unique place in national Democratic politics. Beyond his role in Congress, he has long influenced presidential campaigns. He hosts an annual fish fry in South Carolina that has become a must-stop event for Democratic presidential hopefuls. Candidates often attend to connect with voters and party leaders ahead of the state’s critical primary.

Clyburn also played a major role in the political rise of Joe Biden. His endorsement in South Carolina during the 2020 Democratic primary helped revive Biden’s campaign and cleared the path for his eventual victory in the presidential election. Throughout Biden’s presidency, Clyburn has remained a loyal ally.

Clyburn’s announcement arrives as Democrats prepare for a crucial election cycle. Party leaders believe they have a strong opportunity to regain control of the House of Representatives.

If that happens, Clyburn could once again become a key player in shaping legislation and guiding party strategy. For now, the longtime congressman says he remains focused on serving voters and continuing the mission that has guided his career.

He said he hopes to leave behind a simple legacy — one he asked his daughters to place on his tombstone: that he “did his darnedest to make America’s greatness accessible and affordable for all its citizens.”