South Carolina House Approves Map Threatening Jim Clyburn Seat

South Carolina's Republican-controlled House of Representatives has approved a new congressional map that could eliminate the state's sole Democratic-held seat, currently represented by longtime U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn. The bill passed early Wednesday morning after two days of lengthy debate and now moves to the state Senate for consideration.

The legislation, passed by a vote of 74-37, would redraw all seven of South Carolina's congressional districts. Republicans currently hold six of those seats. The proposed map is part of a special legislative session called by Republican Governor Henry McMaster. Supporters, including the bill's lead sponsor, argue the changes reflect the state's political alignment, noting that former President Donald Trump carried South Carolina in the last three presidential elections. They say voters expect a full Republican congressional delegation.

Democrats have fiercely opposed the measure, filing hundreds of amendments in an attempt to slow the process. They accuse Republicans of a partisan power grab designed to dilute minority voting power. During the debate, Democratic state Rep. JA Moore told Republicans, "What you all are doing is wrong." Other...