Clyburn Dismisses Elon Musk’s Plan to Back Moderates in Democratic Districts

Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) shrugged off Elon Musk’s recent statement about funding moderate candidates in key Democratic districts, dismissing concerns that Musk’s financial influence could sway the party.

Speaking on CNN Saturday, Clyburn made it clear that Democrats are not intimidated by Musk’s wealth, emphasizing that grassroots engagement would outweigh any monetary contributions.

When CNN’s Victor Blackwell asked about Musk’s intentions to fund moderate candidates in heavily Democratic areas, Clyburn responded, “Well, you outwork them. That’s what you do. You’re at work now.”

Reflecting on his own experiences, Clyburn recalled his upbringing in South Carolina during the 1960s and his involvement in civil rights struggles against powerful and well-funded opposition.

Clyburn, a close ally of President Biden, highlighted a recent moment when he missed a vote in Congress to attend a eulogy for a man who played a key role in removing Confederate flags and symbols across the South. “We did that with a lot of money against us,” he said, reinforcing his belief that dedication and hard work could overcome financial obstacles.

Musk’s comments on social media sparked the conversation. He had responded to a video of Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.) by saying, “Forgot to mention that I’m also going to be funding moderate candidates in heavily Democrat districts, so that the country can get rid of those who don’t represent them.”

In response, Clyburn dismissed Musk’s influence, stating, “When I worked for John Lewis back in the 60s, a lot of the money and power was against us.

We did what we had to do. And I don’t know of a single Democrat who is afraid of Elon Musk’s money because we stay close to our constituents and we will outwork him.”

Meanwhile, prominent Democrats and members of the media have recently claimed that Musk, rather than Trump, represents the “real president” due to his significant role in shaping political discourse and policy through his platforms and influence. Critics from the left have blasted Musk as an unelected figure meddling in government affairs.

CNN’s Scott Jennings, however, pushed back against these criticisms, calling them hypocritical. “Un-elected people have been running the government for the last four years,” Jennings said, pointing to other billionaires like George Soros. “I think all the criticism of Musk coming from the left is totally hypocritical, totally over the top.”

The conversation also touched on President Biden’s leadership, with Jennings referencing a Wall Street Journal report highlighting concerns about Biden’s stamina early in his presidency.

Clyburn, however, continues to stand firmly by Biden, even advocating for the president to pardon his son, Hunter Biden, despite months of Biden’s reluctance to issue a pardon.

“I am absolutely okay with it. I don’t know how many people urged him to do so, but I did,” Clyburn revealed during another CNN appearance. When asked how Biden reacted, Clyburn noted, “He seemed to be a bit reticent about it, but I emphasized the fact that we as fathers have obligations to our children.”

Clyburn’s statements underscore his confidence in grassroots efforts and the Democratic Party’s resilience against outside financial influences, whether from Musk or any other billionaire.