Full Breakdown
Rep. James Clyburn Calls for a 13-Justice Supreme Court and Acknowledges Regret Over Clarence Thomas Vote
9/1/2026, 11:24:10 AM
Clyburn’s Admission and Call for Court Expansion
In an August 2026 appearance on NBC’s *Meet the Press*, senior Democratic House leader James Clyburn (D-SC) said his 1991 support for Justice Clarence Thomas was “a mistake.” He added that the Supreme Court’s recent rightward shift warrants expanding the bench from nine to thirteen justices, describing 13 as “a pretty good number” and likening it to a baker’s dozen. Clyburn argued that Congress now faces “significant actions” and that adding four seats would help “dilute” the impact of the current conservative majority.
Background: From 1991 Endorsement to 2026 Reversal
Clyburn testified in favor of Thomas during the 1991 confirmation hearings, calling the future justice “a personal and professional friend.” At that time, Thomas had recently chaired the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (1982-1990), where the agency pursued aggressive anti-discrimination actions. Clyburn’s shift mirrors broader Democratic concerns that the Court has overturned long-standing precedents on abortion, voting rights, and civil-rights protections.
Public Sentiment on the Court
Recent polling shows sharply declining confidence in the Supreme Court. A Pew Research Center survey released two weeks before Clyburn’s interview recorded generational lows in favorable views of the institution. A concurrent Gallup poll placed public confidence at a record 33 %. These figures suggest a political environment receptive to institutional reforms such as expanding the Court.
Official Statements & Responses
- He also noted that impeachment of former President Donald Trump should not be the Democratic priority if the party regains the House, emphasizing affordable housing, education, energy and health care.
- Kamala Harris: In July 2026, the former vice president publicly advocated expanding the Court to 13 justices, a proposal Clyburn said he would support.
- Hakeem Jeffries: The House Minority Leader has described “dramatic Supreme Court reform” as a priority and, while not detailing a specific plan, indicated that multiple reform options are on the table.
- Other Democrats: Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey have previously introduced legislation to expand the Court, though none has passed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I had no idea that Clarence Thomas would rebel the way he has against his own background and experiences. He was raised by his grandfather, and he has shown very little sensitivity to the environment his grandfather grew up down in Pin Point, Georgia.” — James Clyburn
- “That was a mistake on my part,” — James Clyburn
- “I think we are in a position now that calls for some significant actions taken by the Congress and we ought to expand, and 13 is a pretty good number. A baker’s dozen, it would be a good number to have on the court.” — James Clyburn
- “I don’t rule it out, but I don’t rule it in.” — White House senior adviser
What’s Next
Democratic leaders have indicated that any court-expansion legislation would need simultaneous approval by the House, Senate and the White House. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, the party’s ability to control the House will shape whether a formal proposal moves forward in the new Congress. Meanwhile, public polling suggests continued pressure for reforms that could restore confidence in the judiciary.
